The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign that runs annually from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day). It aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence, advocate for women's rights and mobilize efforts to combat all forms of violence against women and girls. This initiative encourages individuals and organizations worldwide to take action, promote gender equality and foster a culture of respect and safety for all.

Gender-based violence can include violence against gender non-conforming people or men and boys, provided the violence stems from their gender identity or presentation. However, women and girls experience the vast majority of gender-based violence, so the terms can be used interchangeably when trying to emphasize that women are the group most harmed by gender-based violence in terms of scale.

According to the Istanbul Convention, violence against women represents “all acts of gender-based violence that result in, or are likely to result in, physical, sexual, psychological or economic harm or suffering to women.” This can include domestic violence and acts of violence in online spaces. These forms of violence can often overlap, with multiple incidents reinforcing one another. In addition, factors like minority status, religion, marital status, disability, age and sexual orientation can compound experiences of violence.

Speaking out against violence against women is crucial for supporting survivors, raising awareness, challenging societal and gender norms, and promoting change. By voicing concerns, individuals can empower survivors, encourage others to seek help and foster a culture of accountability. 

Raising awareness about violence against women as a human rights issue is essential to stop the cycle of abuse and silence. It bolsters local efforts to fight violence and pushes governments to make laws that protect women’s rights and keep them safe.

There are signs, symptoms and behaviors that can be seen in domestic violence survivors. They can include poor physical health, cardiac symptoms, chronic disorders or pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, sexual and reproductive health issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, feelings of guilt or shame, low self-esteem, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, inability to trust others and employment issues. Other indicators may be presented by the perpetrator, such as bullying their partner, issuing threats, controlling the money, or physically abusing the survivor.

If you witness someone being abused, prioritize their safety and well-being. You can also call for help, such as a hotline, the police or a local support service. After the incident, check in with the survivor, listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek help if they are comfortable from services or people they trust, like family members or friends. Remember, your support can save their life!

Survivors can contact local services for survivors, shelters, hotlines, or other support services such as police, healthcare, and social services. If their lives are in immediate danger, survivors should call the emergency number in their respective country.

There is so much you can do to make a difference! Educating yourself on gender-based violence and learning what can be done to help survivors is a key first step. Next, you can show your support in your local community by attending events or donating to a local shelter. Or you can be more vocal by joining an advocacy group to push for policy changes by the government. You can also be an advocate for the cause on social media, by sharing what you have learned about gender-based violence and starting conversations in your networks to raise more awareness and promote action.