Actions for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The United Nations General Assembly has designated today, November 25th, as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The premise of the day is to raise awareness around the world that women are subjected to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence; furthermore, one of the aims of the day is to highlight that the scale and true nature of the issue is often hidden. Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world.

Globally, an estimated 736 million women — almost one in three — have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life. This scourge has intensified in different settings, including the workplace and online spaces, and has been exacerbated by post-pandemic effects, conflicts, and climate change.

The solution lies in robust responses, including investment in prevention. However, alarmingly, data on how much nations are committing to counteract violence against women and girls remains glaringly sparse. For instance, just 5% of government aid is focused on tackling violence against women and girls, and less than 0.2% is directed to its prevention.

We need more investment in women’s organizations, better legislation, prosecution of perpetrators, more services for survivors, and training for law enforcement officials.

Suggest everything each one of us can and should do

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The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a crucial call to action for individuals, communities, and governments worldwide. Here are some actions that each one of us can take to contribute to this important cause:

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the various forms of violence against women and understand the root causes. Share this knowledge with others to raise awareness.
2. Support and Empower Victims: If you know someone who is a victim of violence, offer support. Encourage them to seek help and provide information on local resources such as shelters, hotlines, and counseling services.
3. Challenge Societal Norms: Speak out against harmful stereotypes and norms that perpetuate gender-based violence. Promote gender equality in your community and workplace.
4. Advocate for Better Policies: Engage with local and national policymakers to advocate for stronger laws and policies that protect women and girls from violence and support survivors.
5. Support Women’s Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that work to prevent violence against women and assist survivors.
6. Promote Safe Online Spaces: Stand against online harassment and abuse. Report abusive behavior and support initiatives that aim to make digital spaces safer for women.
7. Encourage Respectful Behavior: Teach children and young people about consent and respectful relationships. Role model positive behavior in your own relationships.
8. Support Workplace Initiatives: If you are in a leadership position, implement workplace policies that protect employees from harassment and provide support to those affected by violence.
9. Participate in Awareness Campaigns: Join or organize events and campaigns that focus on raising awareness about violence against women.
10. Listen and Believe Survivors: Create a supportive environment where survivors feel safe to share their stories without fear of judgment or disbelief.
11. Demand Accountability: Hold perpetrators accountable for their actions, and support legal and social consequences for violence against women.
12. Promote Economic Empowerment: Support initiatives that empower women economically, as financial independence can be crucial in helping survivors leave abusive situations.

Remember, every action, no matter how small, contributes to creating a safer and more equitable world for women and girls.