In an indication of the international impact of the Delhi gang-rape and the subsequent protests the United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-moon joined political leaders to express “deep sorrow” at the death of the 23-year-old student. Condemning the brutal crime, the secretary-general said that violence against women was unacceptable.
In a statement Ban Ki-moon offered his condolences to the family adding, “Violence against women must never be accepted, never excused, never tolerated. Every girl and woman has the right to be respected, valued and protected.”
The secretary-general welcomed the efforts of the Indian government to take urgent action and called for further steps and reforms to deter such crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. The secretary general’s spokesperson said, “He also encourages the Government of India to strengthen critical services for rape victims. UN Women and other parts of the United Nations stand ready to support such reform efforts with technical expertise and other support as required.”
