The Cambodian arm of a worldwide, 16-day campaign to end violence against women wrapped up yesterday with a mass dance – attended by Prime Minister Hun Sen’s son, Hun Many – at the capital’s Wat Botum Park.

In addition to speakers from the UN and Ministry of Women’s Affairs, the event saw youth performers join with NGOs and the public in what organisers called a unified stance against gender-based violence.

“The high number of Cambodians participating in the 16 days’ activities shows us that people are taking the issue of violence against women seriously,” said Wenny Kusuma, country rep of UN Women.

“Violence against women has its root cause in gender inequality. The focus . . . must be on challenging the acceptance that exists towards violence against women, and the traditional gender roles present in the country.”