Recent Boko Haram Attack on School Girls in Nigeria Emblematic of Broader War on Women Globally

NAIROBI, KENYA — More than 100 girls remain missing three days after being attacked by suspected Boko Haram extremists in northern Nigeria. This attack on a school in Dapchi is frighteningly similar to the mass abduction of students from Chibok that ignited international condemnation back in 2014.

Statement from Latanya Mapp Frett, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Global:

“We are devastated to learn of this latest attack on school girls in Dapchi. Schools are supposed to be safe spaces where children can learn and grow. I can’t help but think of the 276 girls kidnapped in Chibok four years ago. These girls endured unspeakable horrors including repeated rapes with the goal of forced pregnancy. Over 100 girls abducted in Chibok remain captive, and over 100 girls remain missing from the attack in Dapchi, and I am horrified to think about what they could be facing. We cannot forget these girls and must double down on our support for programs and policies that advance the health, rights, and empowerment of women and girls everywhere.”

Around the world, women and girls are routinely targeted for violence and sexual exploitation. The State Department’s reported censorship of women’s health and rights in its forthcoming annual human rights report only serves to further obfuscate or even downplay attacks on women and girls. All governments must uphold the rights of women and girls, especially in the face of violent attacks like this.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.

For more than 45 years, Planned Parenthood Federation of America has supported access to sexual and reproductive health care and advocated for reproductive rights around the world through our international arm, Planned Parenthood Global. In partnership with more than 100 organizations across 12 focus countries in Africa and Latin America, we advance the health and rights of young people, women and families, with an emphasis on the most vulnerable and underserved. Last year, our partners reached over a million people with sexual and reproductive health information and services provided by our partners. Our unique sustainability model sets us apart, as we empower partners to stand on their own. We help grassroots organizations develop solid reproductive health programs, identify other sources of funding, build their communications and advocacy skills, and develop strategic plans.