International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Thursday 25^th November 2021 marks the launch of the UNiTE to End Violence against Women campaign, consisting of 16 days of activism across the UN and concluding on 10^th December, which will be International Human Rights Day. This campaign, led by the UN Secretary-General and UN Women since 2008, aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.

The UNiTE campaign has proclaimed the 25th of each month as “Orange Day”, a day to raise awareness and take action to end violence against women and girls. As a bright and optimistic colour, orange represents a future free from violence against women and girls. Orange Day calls upon activists, governments, and UN partners to mobilise people and highlight issues relevant to preventing and ending violence against women and girls, not only once a year, on 25 November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women), but every month.

The World Health Organisation have estimated that 1 in 3 women around the world have been subjected to physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In the most extreme cases, violence against women is lethal: globally, an estimated 137 women are killed by their intimate partner or a family member every day. An estimated 1 in 7 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner or husband in the past 12 months and these numbers do not reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Increases in violence against women, related to COVID-19 and lockdown measures, continue to be reported to helplines, police forces and other service providers, which is a significant concern. During the pandemic, calls to helplines have increased five-fold in some countries as rates of reported intimate partner violence increase. Restricted movement, social isolation, and economic insecurity are increasing women’s vulnerability to violence in the home around the world. Fewer than 40 per cent of the women who experience violence seek help of any sort.

If you or anyone you know is being subjected to domestic abuse, please contact the Domestic Violence and Abuse Department (DVAD) for expert advice as to what protective measures are available, either by clicking on the links, or by telephoning Johnson Astills on 0116 255 4855.