Monday, November 25, marks the commencement of this year’s global <a href="https://www.archyde.com/obstetric-violence-the-urgent-need-for-legal-action-and-healthcare-reforms/” title=”Obstetric Violence: The Urgent Need for Legal Action and Healthcare Reforms”>16 Days of Activism campaign, a vital initiative designed to galvanize worldwide action aimed at the eradication of violence against women and girls (VAWG).
The launch of the 16-day campaign is strategically timed to coincide with the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, emphasizing the global commitment to this pressing issue.
In 2023, UN Women aims to draw urgent attention to the disturbing rise in violence against women, with a particular focus on the alarming cases of femicides committed by intimate partners and family members.
The campaign will culminate on Tuesday, December 10, coinciding with Human Rights Day, underscoring the critical link between gender-based violence and broader human rights concerns.
A national emergency
Violence against women and girls is recognized as the most widespread and entrenched human rights violation globally, affecting millions across different societies.
In the UK alone, it is estimated that 2 million women fall victim to violence perpetrated by men each year, a crisis so grave that it has been deemed a national emergency.
A staggering one in 12 women in England and Wales has experienced crimes such as stalking, harassment, sexual assault, and domestic violence, with the reported incidents surging by 37% over the last five years.
Femicide, the most extreme and horrific form of violence against women and girls, remains a dire concern, with statistics revealing that a woman is killed by a man in the UK on average every three days.
Particularly vulnerable are adolescent girls, with one in four experiencing abuse from their partners, highlighting the urgent need for targeted preventive measures.
Violence against women and girls manifests across all levels and sectors of society, and it is now imperative that we unify our efforts to eradicate it permanently.
The White Ribbon Campaign
The initiation of the 16 Days initiative is also significant as it marks White Ribbon Day, which is part of a broader campaign that calls upon community leaders to set a positive example in their communities.
The White Ribbon Campaign highlights the crucial and positive role that men play in preventing violence against women, grounded in the reality that the majority of men are non-violent.
This year’s poignant theme, ‘It Starts With Men,’ urges men to take accountability not just towards women, but also amongst themselves, fostering a culture that encourages positive behavioral shifts.
To combat the atmosphere of fear surrounding violence, it is essential that we directly confront the attitudes and actions that perpetuate such an environment for women in their everyday lives.
Make a pledge
Brighton & Hove is wholeheartedly committed to backing the White Ribbon Campaign, emphasizing the importance of getting individuals of all genders involved as ambassadors or champions in the mission to reshape social norms that foster violent behavior against women and girls.
You can express your solidarity and support for the campaign year-round by making the promise never to commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women and girls in all its manifestations, and by wearing a white ribbon on the designated day.
You are not alone
Councillor Emma Daniel, Cabinet Member dedicated to Children, Families, Youth Services, and to Ending Violence against Women and Girls, passionately remarked: “We are proud to support the White Ribbon pledge and unequivocally stand against all forms of violence directed towards women and girls.”
“In recent years, we have witnessed the statistics for gender-based violence soar to alarming levels, reinforcing the notion that we are in a state of national emergency in the UK.”
“As a society, it is imperative that we do more to ensure the well-being and safety of women. We must be vocal in our denunciation of violence, actively challenge misogynistic ideologies, and resist the increasingly pervasive culture of toxic masculinity.”
“I call upon men, especially during these critical 16 days, to reflect on how they can contribute to the eradication of gender-based violence by making the promise never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls.
“The manner in which men conduct themselves—whether online, in public spaces, at work, or in social settings—has a significant impact on the safety of women and girls and on their participation in public life.”
“Change must initiate with men actively caring about our safety and being vigilant to ensure we can participate freely in society, as it can be exhausting for women to navigate this reality alone. I long for the next generation to experience life devoid of such mental and emotional burdens.”
“For anyone experiencing domestic or sexual violence, stalking, or any form of abuse, please remember that you are not alone—help and support are readily available.”
Getting help
If you or someone within your circle has been affected by domestic or sexual abuse or violence, please visit our help with domestic abuse page for comprehensive advice on where to seek support.
If you find yourself in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call 999.
For those who feel threatened yet cannot speak freely, the ‘silent solution’ is an option—this automated service allows individuals who call 999 without being able to verbalize their situation to press 55 for assistance.
This conversation will then proceed in a way that enables the caller to respond only with yes or no to the operator’s questions, ensuring their safety while seeking help.
How can educational institutions contribute to raising awareness and promoting the values of respect and equality during the 16 Days of Activism?
**Interview with Councillor Emma Daniel on the 16 Days of Activism Campaign**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Councillor Daniel. With the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, can you share why this initiative is so important right now?
**Councillor Emma Daniel**: Thank you for having me. The 16 Days of Activism is a crucial platform to raise awareness about the severe and persistent violence against women and girls. Violence against women and girls is not just a personal issue but a societal one—it is the most widespread human rights violation globally. With 2 million women experiencing violence by men every year in the UK alone, we find ourselves in a state of national emergency. The urgency for action cannot be overstated.
**Interviewer**: The theme this year is “It Starts With Men.” How do you see men playing a role in this initiative?
**Councillor Daniel**: This theme highlights the importance of men’s involvement in preventing violence against women. It is vital that men reflect on their own behaviors, confront misogynistic attitudes, and challenge each other. The reality is that the majority of men are non-violent and they play an essential role in shaping a culture that prioritizes respect and equality.
**Interviewer**: There seems to be a troubling rise in statistics regarding gender-based violence. What measures can be taken to combat this growing concern?
**Councillor Daniel**: We need comprehensive preventive measures that include education and awareness campaigns, as well as support systems for those affected. Community leaders must set a positive example and work collectively to dismantle harmful stereotypes and behaviors. Additionally, we encourage everyone to make a pledge—never to commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women and girls.
**Interviewer**: How can individuals show their support for the White Ribbon Campaign?
**Councillor Daniel**: Individuals can get involved by wearing a white ribbon and making a commitment to stand against violence in all its forms. By acting as ambassadors, we can contribute to reshaping social norms and foster a community where violence is actively denounced. You can make this promise online at the White Ribbon Campaign’s website.
**Interviewer**: what message do you want to convey to those affected by violence?
**Councillor Daniel**: I want to emphasize that they are not alone. There is a network of support and a community that believes in their safety and well-being. We must all unite in our efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. Everyone deserves to live free from fear, and this campaign is a significant step toward achieving that.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Councillor Daniel, for your insights and commitment to this vital cause.
**Councillor Daniel**: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue. Together, we can make a difference.
