Winnipeg signs on to UN campaign to reduce violence against women

WINNIPEG – Winnipeg is the first Canadian city to join a United Nations campaign aimed at reducing violence against women.

The UN Global Safe Cities Initiative is responsible for including women’s safety audits in urban planning for some cities and for banning sexual harassment in public places.

In Winnipeg, police plan to team up with community groups to identify which parts of the city need immediate attention.

Kerri Irvin-Ross, Manitoba’s minister responsible for the status of women, says the initiative will look at ways to reduce sexual violence and make the streets safer for women.

Aboriginal organizations are hoping the initiative will come up with ways to specifically address violence against native women.

Winnipeg joins more than 15 cities around the world, including New Delhi and Cairo.