Basic Information
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women observe on November 25 with an aim to raise public awareness around the issue as well as increase both policy-making and resources dedicated to ending violence against women and girls worldwide.
Observed on: 25 November
Organized by: UN, UNWOMEN, UNESCO
Introduced in: 1999
Observed: Worldwide
About International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
On December 17, 1999 UN General Assembly proclaimed November 25 as International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This date was chosen to commemorate the Mirabal sisters, Patria Mercedes Mirabal, Maria Argentina Minerva Mirabal and Antonia Maria Teresa Mirabal, were assassinated in the Dominican Republic on the orders of the Dominican ruler Rafael Trujillo on 25 November 1960. The sisters, known as the “Unforgettable Butterflies”, became a symbol of the crisis of violence against women in Latin America. Women activists observe this day since 1980.
This observation is very important as the status says one in three women and girls will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
Activities and Programs on End Violence Day
Many governments, non-government organizations observe this day with various programs to raise public awareness of violence against women. They organize many activities around the world to educate people about the consequences. Some of them are rallies, seminars, public meetings, etc. On this day some organizations launch different campaigns to educate people and spread the message.
Every year, 25 November and the ensuing 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence which follow (ending on December 10, Human Rights Day) are commemorate around the world. This provide individuals and groups a chance to mobilize and call attention to the urgent need to end violence against women and girls.
Some programs include 16 days activism against gender violence, Say NO – UNiTE to End Violence against Women, etc. The actions or programs include a social campaign with hashtags #orangetheworld and #16days.
Theme for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2020 Theme is Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect
Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2019 Theme was “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape“
Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2018 Theme was “Orange the World: #HearMeToo“
2017 Theme: Leave no one behind: end violence against women and girls
2016 Theme: Orange the World – raise funds to end violence against women
2015 Theme: Prevention
2014 Theme: From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World
2013 Theme: Unite to End Violence against Women