Video: HIllary Clinton on Rule of Law and Ending Gender-Based Violence

Video Remarks for Caribbean Event on Rule of Law and Ending Gender-Based Violence

Remarks

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

December 12, 2012

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I’m sorry I can’t be with you, but I am delighted to send best wishes as you discuss new solutions to gender-based violence in the Caribbean. You understand the far-reaching costs of gender-based violence.  You see the consequences firsthand every day of rape, incest and domestic violence – the consequences for the women, as well as the families that are shattered, children denied the chance to live their dreams, and communities that are ripped apart. 
Gender-based violence is not cultural, it is criminal.  And it must be treated as a crime, with the entire legal system working together to prevent and prosecute these crimes.  It starts with having the right laws in place.  And these laws need to be implemented to hold people accountable and address impunity, which often fuels the violence.
I am grateful to all of you for shining a light on these important issues – and more importantly, coming up with concrete new ways to end this terrible scourge.  All of us need to  work together.  Thank you on behalf of the United States and women throughout the region who – because of your work – can hold out hope for a life free of fear and violence.