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Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread violations of human rights worldwide. Approximately 736 million women – almost 1/3 – have experienced physical and/or sexual assault at least once in their lives. The February 7, 2000, UN’s resolution declared December 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The UN also called on governments, international, and non-governmental organizations to unite to raise public awareness of the issue every year on this day.
This event is dedicated to the political activists from the Dominican Republic, the Mirabal sisters. On this day in 1960, under the orders of Dominican ruler Rafael Trujillo, they were brutally killed.
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2023
This year, on December 25, marks the traditional commencement of the 16-day UNiTE campaign, an initiative of 16 Days of Activism, extending until December 10, Human Rights Day. The theme for this year is “Invest in the Prevention of Violence against Women and Girls,” with the slogan #NoExcuse.
UN Women emphasizes that supporting and investing in women’s rights organizations are crucial for solving the problem. Women’s organizations play a vital role in providing services at the local level, strengthening the rights and opportunities of women. Despite this, only 1% of gender-focused state aid is directed toward these organizations.
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According to recent research, 78% of countries have budgetary commitments to implement legislation combating violence against women. However, it is unclear how countries integrate prevention across various sectors, including education, healthcare, economic development, and social protection. Therefore, during this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the UN calls on governments and citizens to share their efforts in combating this global issue.
Violence, especially prolonged one, affects women for years. Recent studies have shown that gender-based violence even alters the stress response system in women. At the same time, this issue remains concealed and taboo: less than 40% of women who have experienced violence seek any form of help, and only 10% turn to the police.
Photo from the SHE Congress – Women’s Congress – in Kyiv, featuring representatives of the UN, dedicated to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in 2017.
