The 16 days of activism against gender based violence is an annual international campaign that aims to raise awareness and advocates for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
here are the key details about this campaign;
Duration: the campaign usually runs from the 25 November(the International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women) until 10 December( Human Right Day)
Origin: Activists initiated the campaign during the inauguration of the women’s global leadership institute in 1991. It serves as an organizing strategy for individuals and organization worldwide to call for action against gender based violence
Purpose: The campaign focuses on ending violence against women and girls. It aims to galvanize efforts to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse
UN Campaign: In support of civil society initiative, the United Nations Secretary General launched the UNITE by 2030 campaign to end violence against women. Each year, the UNITE Campaign highlights a specific theme. For 2023 the theme is “Invest to prevent violence against women and girls”. It encourages citizens to share their actions towards creating a world free from violence and urges government to invest in gender based violence prevention.
Health Impact: Violence against women has lasting health effects affecting physical, mental, sexual and reproductive well being. Health workers play crucial role in providing compassionate care and support for survivor
This year 2023 HASCON staffs and the entire organization got fully involved in the activism against gender based violence to be the voice to those that can’t defend themselves. We had sessions in schools, communities and also in churches raising awareness on the mal of gender inequality, exposing the delinquency on violence against the girl child. it was indeed a 16 days of actions against gender.
Global Call to Action: the 16 days activism is a global moment to advocate for change. making sure that women’s voices are heard. Together we can create a world where women and girls live free from violence.
REMEMBER: If you or anyone you know is experiencing violence, you are not alone. seek support from families, friends, health workers, or hotlines to take steps towards ending violence against women and girls .