International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: What It Means and Why It Still Matters

Violence against women is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world. It affects women of all ages, backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic levels. From intimate partner violence to workplace harassment and systemic discrimination, gender-based violence remains deeply rooted in social norms and power imbalances that continue to harm women globally.

Every year on November 25th, the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—a global call to action urging governments, institutions, and individuals to challenge abuse, support survivors, and actively work toward a future where gender-based violence is no longer tolerated. But despite progress, the reality is sobering: millions of women and girls still face violence daily.

Introduction

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is more than a date on the calendar—it is a reminder of how far we still need to go to ensure equality, justice, and safety for every woman. Officially designated by the United Nations in 1999, November 25th marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign ending on December 10th—Human Rights Day.

Today, this observance continues to raise awareness about the severity, scale, and persistence of violence against women. Despite decades of advocacy, laws, and awareness campaigns, gender-based violence remains a global epidemic. According to the United Nations, 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence, most often at the hands of an intimate partner. Beyond physical harm, the psychological, social, and economic impacts are long-lasting and devastating—not only for survivors, but for families, economies, and entire communities.

This day matters because recognition alone is not enough. We must continue elevating survivor voices, improving legal protections, breaking cycles of abuse, and challenging cultural structures that normalize violence. Understanding the significance of this global observance is a powerful first step.

The Scope of the Issue Today

Gender-based violence remains a widespread issue across the world. Some regions have made progress through stronger laws, public awareness, and improved reporting systems. However, in many areas—especially where legal protections are weak or conflict and instability exist—violence continues to rise. New digital forms of abuse, including cyberstalking and image-based exploitation, also show that the issue is evolving rather than disappearing.

Who Is Most Affected?

While any woman can experience violence, certain groups face higher vulnerability due to discrimination, stigma, or lack of protection.

Women with Disabilities

They often face dependency-based abuse, limited reporting options, and barriers to support services.

LGBTQ+ Women

Many experience violence rooted in prejudice, identity-based hate, and social rejection.

Migrant and Refugee Women

Displacement, lack of legal security, language barriers, and economic vulnerability increase their risk of exploitation and abuse.

Why This Day Exists

A Global Human Rights Issue

Violence against women is not confined to one culture, one country, or one demographic. It exists everywhere—sometimes visible, other times hidden behind closed doors or disguised as tradition.

Major forms of violence include:

• Domestic and intimate partner violence
• Sexual assault and rape
• Human trafficking and exploitation
• Stalking and harassment
• Forced marriage and child marriage
• Female genital mutilation (FGM)
• Digital gender-based violence
• Workplace discrimination and abuse

The United Nations recognizes gender-based violence as a human rights crisis, not a private or isolated issue.

History and Significance

This day commemorates the murder of the Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa), political activists from the Dominican Republic, assassinated by a dictator in 1960. Their courage later became a symbol of resistance and women’s rights.

Timeline Snapshot

Why Violence Against Women Still Persists

Gender-based violence persists due to multiple reinforcing factors. Understanding these underlying causes is essential to effective prevention.

Patriarchy and Power Structures

Societies where men hold dominant positions in politics, family systems, law, and culture often perpetuate unequal power dynamics. In such systems, violence becomes a tool of control and enforcement of gender roles.

Stigma and Silence

Many survivors fear reporting abuse because of:

• Retaliation
• Social judgment
• Rejection from family or community
• Distrust in legal systems
• Shame or self-blame conditioned by culture

This silence creates an environment where perpetrators operate unchecked.

Weak Legal Systems and Enforcement

Some countries lack comprehensive laws protecting women. In others, laws exist but enforcement is inconsistent, inaccessible, or biased.

Barriers include:

• High cost of legal representation
• Long judicial processes
• Corruption or institutional sexism
• Lack of trained investigators

Economic Dependence

Financial control is one of the most common forms of abuse. Survivors may feel unable to leave abusive environments due to lack of income, housing, or family support.

Current Global and National Statistics

The numbers show why this conversation cannot end.

• 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence globally.
• Every 11 minutes, a woman or girl is killed by a partner or family member.
• Less than 40% of survivors seek help.
• Only 1 in 10 actually report violence to authorities.

These statistics do not fully capture emotional abuse, economic control, cyber abuse, or coercion—areas where measurement is still developing.

Regional Variations

Violence against women does not occur at the same rate or in the same way everywhere. While gender-based violence is a global issue, the forms it takes and the severity of its impact vary widely from region to region. Conflict zones, cultural norms, access to justice, and economic stability all influence how women experience and report violence.

Higher Rates in Conflict and War Zones

Countries experiencing armed conflict, political instability, or humanitarian crises often see a dramatic rise in violence against women. Sexual violence is frequently used as a weapon of war, a tactic of displacement, or a method of control. Refugee and displaced women face heightened risks, including trafficking, forced marriage, and exploitation as they seek safety.

Impact of Cultural and Social Norms

In many societies, deeply rooted gender norms dictate what is considered acceptable behavior for women and men. Where patriarchal beliefs are strong, violence may be normalized, justified, or hidden. Practices such as child marriage, honor-based violence, and female genital mutilation persist in some regions due to tradition, inequality, and community pressure rather than legal frameworks.

Countries Making Progress vs. Those Falling Behind

Some nations have made measurable progress in addressing gender-based violence by strengthening legal protections, improving reporting mechanisms, investing in survivor services, and promoting gender equality through public education. Meanwhile, other countries still lack enforceable laws, adequate penalties, or support systems, leaving survivors vulnerable and perpetrators unaccountable.

Comparative Snapshot: Global Trends

How the Day Is Recognized Around the World

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed globally through a wide range of activities designed to raise awareness, support survivors, and inspire systemic change. While practices vary by country and culture, the message remains the same: violence against women must end.

Global Forms of Participation

Around the world, governments, organizations, communities, and individuals mark the day through meaningful events and public demonstrations, including:

• Awareness marches and rallies calling for justice, protection, and accountability.
• Educational programs in schools, universities, and workplaces addressing respect, consent, and prevention strategies.
• Advocacy meetings and policy discussions where experts and leaders evaluate progress and propose stronger protections.
• Social media campaigns that amplify survivor voices and share resources, often using hashtags like #OrangeTheWorld and #EndViolence.
• Legislation announcements and policy reforms, as some nations use the date to introduce new laws or strengthen existing protections.
• Survivor storytelling events that provide safe platforms for sharing experiences and breaking the silence surrounding abuse.

The Symbolism of the Color Orange

Orange has become the recognized color of solidarity for this day. It symbolizes:

• Hope
• Unity
• Visibility
• A brighter future free from violence

Landmarks, buildings, digital campaigns, and communities around the world are illuminated in orange as a visual statement of commitment and collective action. This simple but powerful gesture helps reinforce the global movement toward safety, equality, and justice for all women and girls.

Supporting Survivors: What Works

A Multi-Layered Approach

Ending violence requires systemic effort across:

• Legal frameworks
• Education
• Support services
• Cultural change
• Accountability

Essential Support Systems

Why It Still Matters Today

This day still matters because violence is far from over. As technology evolves, forms of abuse shift—online harassment, image-based exploitation, deepfake abuse, and cyberstalking are rapidly increasing.

Progress exists—but complacency is dangerous.

To eliminate violence, we must:

• Challenge gender stereotypes
• Strengthen legal protections
• Improve survivor services
• Educate future generations
• Hold abusers and institutions accountable

Change is possible—but only if the issue remains visible.

Types of Violence and Their Impacts

Physical and Sexual Violence

Beyond bruises and injuries, survivors may experience chronic health issues, PTSD, depression, and reproductive harm.

Economic Violence

This includes financial control, blocking employment, or withholding resources. Economic abuse traps women in dangerous relationships.

Digital Violence

With technology expanding rapidly, new forms of abuse include:

• Revenge porn
• Deepfake exploitation
• Online stalking
• Harassment on social media

Psychological and Emotional Abuse

Often invisible yet deeply damaging, emotional violence includes manipulation, threats, gaslighting, and isolation.

How the World Observes This Day

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is marked globally through awareness, education, solidarity, and advocacy. Countries, communities, and organizations come together to raise visibility, support survivors, and encourage meaningful change.

Awareness and Community Engagement

Awareness efforts take many forms and are designed to spark conversation, encourage reflection, and inspire action. Some of the most common initiatives include:

• Conferences and workshops that explore prevention strategies, survivor support, and policy gaps.
• Policy advocacy aimed at strengthening legal protections and increasing accountability for perpetrators.
• Survivor storytelling events, where women share their experiences and break the silence surrounding abuse.
• Global social media campaigns, including hashtags like #EndViolence and #OrangeTheWorld, help amplify messages across borders.
• Community marches, protests, and candlelight vigils held to honor victims and demand justice.
• School and workplace education programs that build awareness of consent, respect, and bystander intervention.

These efforts not only raise visibility—they help challenge the stigma and silence that often surround gender-based violence.

Government and NGO Leadership

Government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and international institutions play a critical role in advancing lasting solutions. Their work goes beyond awareness by providing direct support and pushing for systemic change.

Key areas of action include:

• Establishing shelters, safe houses, and emergency hotlines for women fleeing violence.
• Providing legal, medical, and mental health services, ensuring survivors receive compassionate and trauma-informed care.
• Training law enforcement and justice officials to recognize, prevent, and properly respond to gender-based violence cases.
• Implementing gender equality and prevention programs, particularly in youth environments where attitudes and behaviors are shaped.

Together, these efforts send a clear message: preventing violence against women is a collective responsibility requiring both immediate support and long-term structural change.

Solutions: What Works to End Violence

Prevention Through Education

Teaching respect, empathy, consent, and equality from childhood can change cultural patterns.

Improving Survivor Support

Changing Mindsets

Violence ends when societies:

• Hold abusers accountable
• Believe survivors
• Challenge harmful norms

Technology and Innovation in Prevention

Modern technology is playing a growing role in addressing and preventing violence against women. Digital tools are helping improve reporting, increase accountability, and expand access to education and resources—especially for those who may not feel safe speaking out publicly.

AI Tools Detecting Harassment

Artificial intelligence is now being used to monitor, detect, and report online abuse. These systems flag threatening language, digital stalking behaviors, and toxic patterns across platforms, helping prevent cyber harassment before it escalates.

Anonymous Reporting Apps

Many countries and organizations now provide confidential reporting systems through mobile apps. These tools allow individuals to document incidents, request emergency support, or contact authorities safely—without risking exposure to their abuser.

Online Education Initiatives

Virtual training programs, webinars, and interactive learning platforms are helping spread awareness about consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention. These digital resources make education accessible to schools, workplaces, and communities worldwide.

The Role of Media

Media—whether traditional or digital—plays a powerful role in shaping how society views violence against women. Reporting, storytelling, and representation can either normalize harm or help challenge harmful beliefs.

Responsible Reporting

Media professionals are increasingly encouraged to report stories involving violence with sensitivity, accuracy, and survivor-centered language. Avoiding sensationalism and victim-blaming helps create a safer and more respectful narrative.

Removing Harmful Stereotypes

Movies, television, advertising, and online content influence public attitudes. Eliminating sexist tropes and gender stereotypes helps shift cultural expectations and reduce the normalization of violence or inequality.

Using Storytelling for Change

Survivor stories, awareness campaigns, documentaries, and advocacy-focused content have become powerful tools for education and activism. These narratives help break the silence, inspire compassion, and spark action at both the community and policy levels.

The Role of Men and Boys

Preventing violence is not a responsibility women should carry alone—it requires full participation from men and boys. Gender-based violence is rooted in power dynamics, cultural conditioning, and social expectations, many of which largely involve male behavior, privilege, or silence. When men actively choose to challenge harmful norms rather than ignore them, meaningful change becomes possible.

Men and boys can contribute by:

• Rejecting misogyny and sexist attitudes in conversations, media, and personal behavior.
• Challenging damaging stereotypes about masculinity that encourage aggression, dominance, or emotional suppression.
• Speaking up against disrespect or harassment, whether witnessed in public, online, or among peers.
• Modeling empathy, respect, and accountability, especially in relationships and leadership roles.
• Listening to and supporting survivors without minimizing their experiences or shifting blame.

Positive masculinity—one grounded in respect, equality, emotional intelligence, and integrity—plays a crucial role in preventing violence. When men become allies rather than bystanders, they help shape communities where women and girls can live without fear.

How Individuals Can Take Action

Everyone has a role in creating a safer world for women. Change begins with everyday choices and the willingness to speak up.

• Support and donate to local shelters, crisis centers, and advocacy organizations.
• Challenge harmful language, sexist jokes, or harassment when you witness it.
• Join awareness events, campaigns, or fundraising initiatives that amplify survivor voices.
• Educate yourself and others about consent, boundaries, and respectful relationships.
• Share credible resources, campaigns, and information to help spread awareness.
• Vote for leaders and policies that protect women’s rights and strengthen survivor support systems.

Individual actions may seem small, but together they build powerful momentum toward meaningful change.

FAQs

1. Why is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women observed on November 25th?

November 25th was chosen to honor the Mirabal sisters—three activists from the Dominican Republic who were murdered in 1960 for opposing dictatorship and advocating for human rights. The United Nations later adopted the date to highlight global violence against women and to encourage collective action. Today, the date marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, bringing governments, communities, and individuals together to raise awareness, influence policy, and support survivors.

2. What types of violence are included under gender-based violence?

Gender-based violence includes many forms of harm rooted in inequality and discrimination. These include domestic or intimate partner violence, sexual assault, harassment, stalking, forced marriage, and female genital mutilation. Economic abuse, digital harassment, image-based exploitation, and workplace discrimination are also recognized forms. Although visible injuries may occur, many forms—such as emotional and psychological abuse—are hidden yet deeply damaging. All forms of violence undermine women’s rights, safety, dignity, and well-being.

3. Why do many survivors avoid reporting violence or seeking help?

Survivors often remain silent due to fear of retaliation, financial dependence, cultural pressure, or lack of trust in the justice system. In some cases, reporting may lead to victim-blaming rather than support. Others fear losing custody of their children or being forced to leave their homes without resources. When legal protections are weak or community support is limited, survivors may feel safer staying quiet than seeking justice—highlighting the need for better support and protection systems.

4. What role can laws and policy change play in ending violence against women?

Strong laws can protect survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, and change public expectations around safety and equality. Policy change can expand access to shelters, reporting systems, legal assistance, and mental health support. Effective laws also ensure consequences for harassment, assault, forced marriage, and trafficking. However, laws alone are not enough—enforcement, trained responders, awareness, and survivor-centered support are essential to ensure policies work in practice, not just on paper.

5. How can schools and workplaces help prevent violence against women?

Educational institutions and workplaces can support prevention by promoting respect, consent education, and zero-tolerance policies. Awareness training helps individuals recognize abusive behavior, challenge harmful language, and support survivors. Reporting procedures, confidential support channels, and intervention guidelines ensure safety and accountability. By teaching healthy communication and addressing bias early, schools and workplaces can reduce the normalization of harmful behavior and help build cultures grounded in equality and respect.

6. How does technology support efforts to prevent and respond to violence?

Technology provides innovative tools that make support, reporting, and education more accessible. AI systems can detect abusive or threatening behavior online, while smartphone apps offer confidential reporting and emergency resources. Virtual learning platforms provide awareness training and bystander intervention skills. Technology also connects survivors to legal support, shelters, and mental health services. However, digital safety must evolve alongside new threats like cyberstalking, deepfakes, and harassment to protect women fully.

7. What can individuals do to help end violence against women in their communities?

Everyone can contribute by speaking out against harassment, supporting shelters, promoting respectful language, and educating themselves about consent and equality. Challenging sexist jokes, refusing to normalize abuse, and being an active bystander can prevent harm. Voting for leaders and policies that protect women’s rights also creates long-term systemic change. Small actions—donating, sharing resources, raising awareness, or supporting survivors with empathy—collectively build momentum toward a safer future.

Conclusion

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a powerful annual reminder that gender-based violence is not a private issue—it is a global crisis that demands continued attention and action. While awareness and policy improvements have advanced over decades, millions of women still face violence simply because of their gender. This day exists to honor survivors, advocate for change, and continue the global push toward safety and equality.

Ending violence requires involvement from everyone—governments, communities, men, women, and young people. The fight for justice continues until every woman can live free from fear, discrimination, and harm. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, challenging harmful norms, and advocating for systemic change, we move closer to a world where violence against women is not tolerated—not by law, not by culture, and not by silence.