Political opinion: Workers Party Women's Committee chair leads delegation taking part in Reclaim the Night Rally

Ms Meighan said this is one of the many events and meetings the party will participate in to mark the 16 days to highlight the international elimination of violence against women and girls.

She said: "Violence against women across the globe has exponentially increased and governments are not doing enough to tackle this growing problem. It is disgraceful that women and progressive groups and some political parties have been raising this issue for decades and those in authority are not listening. More women are being murdered in their own homes by violent partners.

"More women and girls are being raped and sexually assaulted on our streets, more women and girls are being verbally abused online and in person. Governments are failing women by not implementing legislation, providing ring-fenced funding, not providing resources to arrest and prosecute perpetrators.

"The workers Party have listened to women who have survived domestic violence and abuse, and heard first hand the trauma they suffered while trying to get justice. The slow process of getting to court and having to repeat the details of their abuse can be frustrating painful and traumatic.

"We need a better system that shortens the process and does not require women repeatedly telling their stories."

She added: "We demand an end to the oppression, exploitation, and harm to women across the globe. Women should have the right to live free from harm. Women’s Rights are Human Rights."