Third, we must be persistent in denouncing violence directed against women an...

Third, we must be persistent in denouncing violence directed against women and girls such as sexual violence, including rape as a weapon of war, sexual slavery, enforced prostitution, forced pregnancy and enforced sterilization. We will continue to promote the empowerment of women and girls. In Afghanistan, for example, Canada has frequently stressed the need for the Afghan government to promote and protect human rights, including freedom of expression and religious belief. Canada is supporting programs that implement the 2009 Law on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and help Afghan human rights institutions promote equal rights for all citizens and to investigate and act on violations.