International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Many women and girls are subjected to domestic violence, exploitation, sexual violence, harmful traditional practices and other abuse every day of their lives, it has been claimed.

According to Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, executive director of the United Nations Population Fund, as many as one in three women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or abused in some other way.

She called on nations to come together to demand an end to "the most pervasive yet least reported human rights abuse in the world".

Ms Obaid said a new network of male leaders, led by United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, could offer their leadership and commitment to "actively engage" men and boys in the cause to end impunity and violence against women, and promote justice and human rights.

"Whether they are policy makers, community or religious leaders, fathers or husbands, uncles, brothers or young boys, they can all do their part to eliminate all forms of violence against women," she added.

"All segments of society must unite for the dignity and well-being of women and girls."

Last week, the World Health Organization reported that women need a higher social status in many countries if they are to improve their own health and wellbeing.