The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was established in 1999 by the General Assembly of the United Nations, with Resolution 54/134 of 17 December, and is held every year on 25 November.
The day is also known as Orange Day because the colour orange is recognised across the world as that chosen by The United Nations Gender Equality Body, UN Women, to symbolise a future without violence against women.
To mark the day, UN Women promotes the #OrangetheWorld awareness campaign
“Women and girls continue to suffer discrimination and violence across the world. Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary condition for a prosperous, sustainable and peaceful world.“
Sustainable Development Goal No.5
As in previous years, this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women launches 16 days of activism to be concluded on the 10th of December 2020 — the day that commemorates the INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY. Several public events are being coordinated and iconic buildings and landmarks will be ‘oranged’ to recall the need for a violence-free future.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women will mark the launch of the UNiTE to End Violence against Women campaign (Nov 25- Dec 10) — an initiative of 16 days of activism concluding on the day that commemorates the International Human Rights Day (10 December).
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.
Among its activities, there is a UN official event that will take place on November 24th(10.00-11.30am ET.) You can follow the webinar online through the UN Women’s website by registering in advance. The campaign also includes the launch of a new report with updated data on gender violence, as well as a multitude of digital initiatives in which you can join in.
Women’s McKenzie Friend as an organisation works hard to address the inequalities that women face in our society. Our mission is to promote access to justice. We fully support the campaign to highlight violence against women throughout the world.