The road to ending sexual violence

Dear John,

April marked Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Equality Now’s 32nd anniversary. Over the years, we’ve been steadfast in our campaign to end sexual and gender-based violence and supported justice actors from around the world. At the core of our work are three central principles: good laws, proper implementation of those laws, and application of an intersectional lens. Each principle will positively impact generations of women and girls.

Thanks to your ongoing support, we’ve had several recent, significant victories, including:

1. Equality Now helped overturn a "marry your rapist" law in Bahrain

For years, Equality Now amplified the voice of partners to advocate for the end of the so-called “marry your rapist” law in Bahrain through joint UN submissions, regional convenings, and our global rape laws report. Bahrain Parliament abolished the law in June 2023, offering greater protection against sexual violence and closing a gap that allowed impunity for rapists.

2. Equality Now helped draft a comprehensive sexual and gender-based violence law in Kwale County, Kenya

Kenya’s Kwale County passed a comprehensive sexual and gender-based violence bill into law in December 2023. After successfully advocating for reform, Equality Now formed part of the law’s drafting team, which collaborated with government agencies, civil society organizations, and the public to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence.

3. Equality Now’s recommendations on drafting laws based on consent were adopted into a federal bill in Mexico

In Mexico, our recommendations and guidelines for drafting laws based on consent were adopted into a federal bill presented in the Senate’s Judicial and Legislative Studies Commissions. Equality Now continues to defend this bill and works with stakeholders in Mexico City and Oaxaca State to draft similar state-level bills.

Read more about Equality Now's victories toward ending sexual violence >>

This work has a lasting impact, improving the lives of women and girls for generations to come, but it requires persistence and flexibility. If you have the means, we would appreciate your continued generosity. Your support allows us to respond to unforeseen challenges and take advantage of new opportunities.

Support Equality Now

During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we highlighted our work to end sexual violence, including reforming laws and ensuring existing laws are properly implemented. We also shared resources with our global network of professionals and changemakers, and we hosted or co-hosted informational webinars, including one on sexual violence in the metaverse.

With your support, we will continue building on our successes and forge innovative solutions to the threats women and girls face worldwide.

Thank you for standing with us. You make our work possible.

Sincerely,
Amy Hutchinson
Global Director of Development

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