International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness of the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, particularly against women and girls. It highlights the urgent need to prevent and address this widespread problem, which can take many forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence. This day also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the countless survivors of this violence and to promote global efforts – involving individuals, communities, and governments – to end this harmful and discriminatory practice.

The history of this observance dates back to 1981 when women's rights activists first commemorated it. They chose to honour the lives of the Mirabal sisters, three political activists assassinated in the Dominican Republic in 1960. The United Nations General Assembly later officially designated the observance in 1999. In the United Kingdom, the government recognises the importance of addressing violence against women, particularly through the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, a comprehensive legal framework aimed at preventing and combating gender-based violence.

On International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, various events take place across the United Kingdom. From educational talks and workshops to awareness-raising campaigns and solidarity actions, these events aim to involve the broader public in the fight against violence against women. They also seek to promote implementing more effective policies and support services for survivors. Individuals and institutions in the United Kingdom must join in these efforts every year on November 25th and continue working towards the elimination of violence against women worldwide.

Facts about violence against women

• The theme for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in 2023 was Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence
• According to the U.N, it's estimated that 35% of all women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives.
• November 25th has been recognized as a day against gender-based violence since 1981. This date honors the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were mere murdered in 1960 by the country's ruler, Rafael Trujillo.
• The majority of violence against women is perpetrated by someone known to the victim, often an intimate partner. Around 30% of women in the UK have experienced some form of domestic violence from a partner since the age of 16.
• It is widely recognized that violence against women is underreported. The Office for National Statistics estimates that only about 18% of women who experience domestic abuse report it to the police.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Explore the U.N's informative Guideline to better understand the inequality women face.
• One of the most common forms of violence is intimate partner violence. Intimate partner violence can be committed by a former partner or a spouse and can take place in a public or private space. If you or someone you know has been affected, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.
• Coordinate with local women's shelters or organizations providing support services and assist in their initiatives. This can include volunteering, providing donations of clothing and toiletries, or organizing drives within communities.
• Use purple, the color associated with the campaign, as a theme for events. Encourage individuals, workplaces, and public buildings to have purple decorations or wear purple clothing to show solidarity.