16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign brings together movements and organisations working around the world to draw the attention of governments to the critical issue of gender-based violence.
The campaign originated with the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991, calling for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
16 Days of Activism runs from 25 November to 10 December every year, starting from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and running until 10 December (International Human Rights Day). This year’s theme is ‘Safe, Everywhere, Always.’
This year’s Our Watch activity for 16 Days of Activism focuses on the important work of engaging men and boys in preventing violence against women. We’ll be talking about healthy masculinities and sharing actionable content on how to be an active bystander with men aged 20-35.
Men have a vital role in preventing violence against women. Breaking cycles of violence and transforming gender norms is a role that everyone, especially men, can take part in. This is key to building a culture of respect and equality across society.
Download our stakeholder toolkit
Download our social media tiles (ZIP file)
We’re aiming to connect with men who want to take action on gender inequality and gender-based violence and empower them to be active bystanders in settings that relate to them.
Our campaign messages speak to men where they’re at, with actions they can take anytime, in all parts of their lives. For example:
You can get involved with 16 Days of Activism by joining events and actions Australia-wide.
Join the Walk Against Family Violence 2024. On Friday 22 November, join thousands of Victorians for the 16th annual Walk Against Family Violence in the Melbourne CBD, organised by RespectVictoria.
Check out RespectVictoria’s 16 Days of Activism toolkit and bring 16 Days to your community.
Sign up for UNWomen’s Safe. Everywhere. Always. Challenge.
For those not in Victoria, Safe+Equal offers resources on community action ideas, webinars to support organisations on campaign planning and advocacy, and successful case studies that you can use anywhere.
