The proceedings will be conducted in English. The purpose of the seminar is to provide parliamentarians of the region with the elements of a comprehensive and multisectoral response to violence against women and girls and familiarize them with the components of legislation to effectively tackle this scourge.

Special emphasis will be placed on prevention and parliamentary mechanisms to secure effective enforcement of legislation, including parliament’s oversight and budgetary powers and ability to monitor and facilitate law enforcement. Parliamentarians of the region will be able to exchange experiences and know-how and ultimately identify what parliamentary action can be taken to ensure respect for the fundamental rights of women and girls, most notably their right to a life free of violence.