Avaaz is organizing a global petition to help reduce the incidence of rape in India following the rape and death of the 23-year old medical student in New Delhi. According to their website Avaaz “is a global web movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere.”

This international human rights organization has created a petition that will be delivered to Indian Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde. Mr. Shinde will be meeting with other government officials on January 4 to discuss the issue of India’s rampant rape crisis. There is some fear that without global pressure—as well as the internal pressure—little may come from this meeting. Here’s what the petition says:

For too long, violent criminals have attacked India’s women and girls with no fear of consequences. It is time to bring an end to the war on women. We call on you to take immediate action to set up fast-track courts for victims of sexual violence across the country, and take every step necessary to protect India’s women and ensure justice is done.

As of 11:25 am Eastern Standard Time, 37,342 people from around the world have signed on to this call for reform. If you are interested in joining this global chorus, please go to the Avaaz petition site and sign on.

Thanks.