International Day for the Elimination of violence against women

One in three women across the world experience physical or sexual violence, mostly by an intimate partner. 

Violence against women is more common than most think; it’s a human rights issue that needs urgent attention. So every year on the 25th of November, we celebrate International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. 

This annual awareness-raising celebration first began in 2008, aiming to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world. The day kicks off the further human rights movement; 16 days of activism, running from the 25th of November to the 10th of December. 

In honour of this critical movement, this article will consider how you can support the cause and help someone you think might be in trouble.  

Signs of domestic abuse 

One of the most common forms of violence against women is domestic abuse. Experiencing domestic abuse can feel isolating, scary and intimidating. It’s often not easy for those experiencing abuse to speak up about it—so spreading awareness of these signs is vital. 

• Physically hurting you (beating, hitting, pushing)
• Unpredictable temper  
• Humiliating you, putting you down 
• Jealous behaviour, cheating accusations 
• Monitoring your use of technology and money
• Bullying, threatening or controling you 
• Isolating you by stopping or discouraging you from seeing friends and family
• Pressure to have sex or sexual contact 

If you think you or someone you know is experiencing abuse—recognising it is the first step. From here, you can get help in several different ways. The government website has a great range of support organisations, helplines and information that can help you move forward. 

Learn more about the cause 

The history of violence and oppression of women’s rights spans decades; there are plenty of resources out there that dive deeper into this story—and how we can work towards a better place in the future.

Learning about violence against women is one of the best ways to show your support for this awareness day. The United Nations is a good place to start, and plenty of other organisations offer in-depth information too, such as Women’s Aid, Refuge and End Violence Against Women. 

Share your voice 

One of the most important ways you can show your support and raise awareness for this issue is via social media. There are a great range of campaigns online you can show your support for, including the end online abuse campaign by End Violence Against Women, which highlights how one in five women will experience online harassment abuse.

There are also incredible advocates for women’s rights across all different social media platforms you can also follow. Get involved by sharing this content where you can and encouraging others to do the same.