16 Days of Activism
The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign that highlights the urgent need to end violence against women and girls. Held annually from November 25 (White Ribbon Day / International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the campaign connects gender-based violence with fundamental human rights.
Violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains a widespread crisis, and every 3 days a woman is killed by a man in the UK. 16 Days of Activism shines a light on this violence and calls for coordinated efforts to address it. It challenges harmful societal norms, advocates for stronger legal protections, and emphasizes the need for community-based solutions to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
Common initiatives include:
- Education campaigns: using social media, public forums, and workshops to challenge stereotypes and harmful practices.
- Policy advocacy: for stronger laws and better enforcement mechanisms to address VAWG and protect survivors.
- Support services: like shelters, counselling, and legal aid, which are vital for helping survivors rebuild their lives.
- Youth engagement: through art, dialogue, and activism to cultivate the next generation of advocates.
The campaign emphasises addressing the root causes of violence, such as gender inequality, patriarchal norms, and economic disparities. Solutions include:
- Empowering women and girls: through education and economic opportunities to break cycles of dependence and discrimination.
- Engaging men and boys: as allies in promoting equality and dismantling harmful norms.
- Advocating for systemic change: to ensure laws and institutions prioritize prevention, protection, and accountability.
The 16 Days of Activism is a rallying cry for individuals, organisations, and governments to take responsibility for ending VAWG. It reminds us that this issue affects everyone and requires collective effort. True progress, however, demands action beyond these 16 days. Education, survivor support, and advocacy for lasting reforms must continue year-round.
By raising awareness, driving policy change, and inspiring collective action, we work toward a future where such campaigns are no longer necessary. Together, we can build a world free from gender-based violence.