Absent in statistics, unnoticed by researchers, neglected by national and local authorities and mostly overlooked by civil society organizations – the situation of many widows around the world is both desperate and invisible. Millions of the world’s widows endure extreme poverty, ostracism, violence, homelessness, ill health and discrimination in law and custom. The United Nations has stated that the abuse of widows and their children constitutes one of the most serious violations of human rights and obstacles to development today. To raise awareness and provide opportunities for action towards achieving full rights and recognition for widows, the UN has established June 23rd as International Widows’ Day. Read more by clicking here.
