Today, November 25, the civilized world celebrates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women established at the initiative of the UN.
Recent horrific incidents of violence against women in our country clearly demonstrate how serious this problem is, and that it should be addressed in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
Violence against women represents a problem that the government will not be able to cope with alone. The entire community, together with the government, should unite against violence. Respect for women is a lasting tradition in Georgia, and the increased acts of violence against women are incompatible with this tradition and extremely shameful.
I consider absolutely unacceptable the attempts to justify violence against women based on traditions, culture, religion or any other characteristics of our country. I strongly reject the idea of public inquiry into possible provocations on the part of victims in violent crime cases. Violence cannot be justified. Violent perpetrators should be made liable before the law.
I am convinced that together we, the government, non-governmental organizations and the entire society, will succeed in effectively combating violence against women and achieving tangible results in this regard.