This International Women's Day let's commit to stopping violence against women in the Pacific.

The Pacific Region is one of the most dangerous places in the world to be born a girl.

As many as two in three women will experience violence and abuse at the hands of those closest to them, but in some places 100% of women report experiencing violence — the rate globally is one in three.

A new campaign from UN Women, launched today, is a call to action to end the rampant attacks on women and children in our region.

“Make no mistake; this is a life and death issue,” says Julie Mckay, Executive Director of UN Women NC Australia.

“Every ten minutes, somewhere in the world, a girl loses their life to violence.”

To show their commitment to act, supporters can upload a photo of their face at unwomen.org.au that will then be added to a visual petition.

The petition will take the form of a growing composition, which can be shared under the hashtag #FaceItTogether.

“We need to translate that awareness into action,” Ms Mckay told Mamamia.

“We’re hoping to show that people from all walks of life are committed to eliminating violence.”

Ms McKay described rates of violence in countries such as Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea as both “unacceptably high” and “entirely preventable” and explained the need for better resources to combat violence.

“Your face is your pledge, but your donation is the easiest way for you to show your support and invest in the elimination of violence against women,” she said.

“If every person who pledges their image were to donate just $20, then we have a real chance of saving lives.”

Purple campaign scarves from Esprit can be purchased in store or online with 100% of the profits going to the campaign.

The money raised will build on the strides already made in recent years: from increased access to shelters for women at imminent risk, to the establishment of a 24-hour crisis hotline.

In addition, campaign funded vocational training and education programs will equip women with the tools to escape violence, change attitudes and help promote healthy, respectful relationships.

Resources have also been expended on galvanising influential locals, from village chiefs to faith community leaders, who have been fundamental in introducing a culture of zero tolerance.

“These countries are our closest neighbours,” Ms Mckay said.

“Not even 4km separates Australia with Papua New Guinea; 4km that can mean the difference between life and death for a woman at the hands of entirely preventable violence.”

Pledge your face to the #FaceItTogether visual petition at faceittogether.unwomen.org.au/ or donate via the website.

You can also purchase the official campaign scarf from Esprit stores or online with 100% of the proceeds of which will go to combating violence against women and girls in the Pacific .