The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a myriad of risk factors for increased gender-based violence and violence against women and girls, including a lack of access to justice services and slow or stalled justice processes. 
 
Services for survivors of gender-based and domestic violence must be regarded as essential by governments and should be resourced and made accessible, especially to marginalised and impoverished groups. 
 

• The Elders call for responsive justice services that are tailored to women’s needs and that empower women and inform them about their options at each stage of their justice journey.  
• The Elders call on male leaders to speak out against violence against women and girls and to play a role in defying the destructive stereotypes that normalise and perpetuate the gender inequality that underpins violence.  

"Sustainable and long-lasting freedom from gender-based violence requires the commitment and the unwavering support of men."
- Ernesto Zedillo

Learn more about The Elders' calls for leaders to:

1. Increase the number of women in leadership positions in the justice sector
2. Increase funding for legal empowerment and justice services that meet the needs of women
3. Address justice for survivors of gender-based violence with renewed vigour
4. Invest in quality data and analysis on women’s justice problems and experiences
5. Invest in gender-just climate solutions

Find out more about The Elders’ work on Access to Justice