An international gathering in the Philippines has concluded that widespread violence against women and children in Southeast Asia can be prevented with the implementation of strong laws and policies.

Representatives from the United Nations and Southeast Asian nations met for two days in Manila this week to explore ways to address violence against women and children in the region.

The U.N. secretary-general's special representative on violence against children, Marta Santos Pais, said violence against children occurs in all contexts, including where children are expected to benefit from special protection. But she said it can be prevented with strong measures and effective action.

Another U.N. official, Indira Jaising, said violence against women reflects unequal power relations in society. She also suggested that all religious and cultural discourses that perpetuate the subordinate position of women must be rejected.

Dialogue with regional representatives will help the U.N. prepare a five-year plan to prevent and eliminate violence against women and children.