International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Every year on 25 November, countries around the world observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day serves as a powerful reminder that millions of women and girls face harm that threatens their safety, confidence, dignity, and freedom. The United Nations recognises violence against women as one of the most widespread human rights violations, and the need for urgent global action remains critical.

Understanding the Global Crisis of Violence Against Women

Violence against women affects every country, community, and age group. According to the United Nations, nearly one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, often at the hands of an intimate partner (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 25 November

Go to source). These statistics reveal a serious crisis that impacts health, mental wellbeing, and long term social and economic security.

The day was first established by the UN General Assembly in 1999, inspired by decades of activism led by women’s rights defenders. The date commemorates the Mirabal sisters of the Dominican Republic, who were murdered in 1960 for speaking out against dictatorship. Their story continues to symbolise courage and resistance for women across the world.

The Importance of Ending Gender Based Violence

Gender based violence exists in many forms. These include domestic abuse, sexual assault, emotional violence, online harassment, human trafficking, forced marriage, female genital mutilation, and economic control. Each form harms women’s physical health, impacts their psychological wellbeing, and limits their ability to participate fully in society.

Women who face violence often struggle with chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and long term trauma. Research published in journals on public health shows that survivors are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, reproductive health problems, substance misuse, and self harm (2^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Intimate partner violence and cardiovascular risk in women: a population-based cohort study

Go to source). These consequences highlight why violence must be treated not only as a human rights issue but also as a major public health priority.

Why International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women Exists

The United Nations created this observance to raise awareness, support survivors, and encourage governments to strengthen protective policies. The day also marks the beginning of the UNiTE Campaign’s 16 Days of Activism, a global initiative that runs until 10 December, which is Human Rights Day. During this period, communities amplify conversations, launch support programmes, and promote advocacy efforts designed to protect women and girls.

The UN emphasises that progress remains too slow. Many countries still lack strong legal systems that respond effectively to violence. Survivors often face barriers like social stigma, fear of retaliation, financial dependence, or limited access to shelters and legal support. Strengthening laws, improving reporting systems, investing in survivor services, and educating communities are essential steps for change.

New Program Reduces Violence Against Pregnant Women
Pregnant women who took part in the Domestic Violence Enhanced Home Visitation Program (DOVE) saw a significant reduction in intimate partner violence.

Breaking the Silence and Supporting Survivors

Ending violence begins with breaking the silence that surrounds it. Providing safe spaces, encouraging open conversations, and promoting empathy help survivors come forward. Communities must learn to recognise warning signs and respond with sensitivity and support. Support services such as hotlines, counselling centres, medical care, and legal aid create lifelines for women in crisis. Digital tools and online reporting platforms are also becoming important, especially for women who may be unable to seek help directly.

What Each of Us Can Do to Drive Change to Prevent Violence Against Women

Every individual has a role in preventing violence. Simple actions like challenging harmful gender stereotypes, supporting survivors, promoting healthy relationships, educating young people, and speaking out against abusive behaviour can create meaningful impact. Men and boys play a vital role as allies, since lasting change requires collective responsibility.

Communities that value equality, respect, fairness, and dignity create safer environments for women. Ending violence is not a woman’s issue alone. It is a shared human responsibility that shapes the well-being of families, children, and future generations.

Moving Toward a Safer and Fairer Future for Women

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women reminds us that change is possible. When governments strengthen protection systems, when communities support survivors, and when individuals challenge harmful attitudes, progress becomes real. The day encourages everyone to imagine a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear and harm.

Promoting safety for women is essential for building stronger societies. Respect, equality, education, and justice form the foundation of peaceful communities, and the fight against gender based violence must continue every day of the year.

References:

1. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 25 November - (https://www.un.org/en/observances/ending-violence-against-women-day/background)
2. Intimate partner violence and cardiovascular risk in women: a population-based cohort study - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23428282/)

Source-Medindia