19. While acknowledging the important role played by Liberia in protecting the rights of women, there still exists inequality between men and women, including in the areas of political participation and literacy, with up to 80 per cent of Liberian women being illiterate. Women have been and still are vulnerable due to a patriarchal culture and discrimination that existed even before the civil war. Women in rural areas are disproportionately affected by lack of access to adequate health services, education, economic opportunities, social benefits and access to justice. Sexual and Gender-Based Violence 20. The Commission appreciates the legislative and policy measures taken by Liberia to combat violence against women and children, but is gravely concerned about the magnitude of violence against these vulnerable groups in the country, with rape and sexual violence being amongst the most frequently committed crimes, especially against young girls. Children 21. The Commission is concerned with reports that even following the 14 years civil war, children continue to disproportionately suffer from abuse, including sexual violence and neglect. Older Persons and Persons with Disabilities 22. The Commission notes that Liberia has no social safety net to address the concerns of old people, and neither are there any national policy frameworks within which the concerns of people with special needs, especially the elderly can be addressed. Many elderly persons died during the civil war, and in isolated instances, elderly persons were targeted and abused sexually, killed or exposed to poverty. 23. The Commission commends Liberia for ratifying the CRPD and establishing the National Commission on Disabilities, but is disturbed by reports that persons with disabilities, especially children, face discrimination. Harmful Traditional Practices 24. The Commission notes that patriarchal attitudes and stereotypes relating to the role and responsibilities of men and women exacerbate harmful traditional practices. 25. Although the Liberia Report makes no mention of the practice of early marriage, nearly half of young girls in the country marry before the age of 18, increasing incidences of teenage pregnancy. In most cases these girls are forced to marry. The Commission highly commends the adoption of the Children's Act launched in February 2012, which prohibits marriage of girls under the age of 18. 5