The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence runs annually from November 25th (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) through December 10th (Human Rights Day). Coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership, this worldwide initiative calls on the international community to unite and end violence against women and girls.
This year’s campaign centers on a vital theme: “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Make Education Safe for All”.
The Scale of Intimate Partner Violence
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 70% of women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
Findings from the WHO Multi-Country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence highlight how deeply entrenched intimate partner violence remains across diverse cultures:
- Prevalence range: Rates of intimate partner violence span from 15% in Japan to 70% in Ethiopia and Peru.
- Global average: The majority of surveyed regions report rates between 29% and 62%.
The Ripple Effect on Children
Related: Maltreatment or Witnessing Family Violence Can Lower a Child’s IQ
The impact of domestic abuse extends far beyond the immediate victim. WHO research reveals that witnessing intimate partner violence disrupts healthy childhood development. Children exposed to violence at home consistently show higher rates of social, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and physical health challenges compared to those raised in non-violent households.
Kids were asked to “slap her” watch their reactions
Ending gender-based violence requires more than awareness—it demands collective accountability and systemic change. Everyone has a role to play; whether through policy reform, community support, or education, the time to advocate for a safer world for women and girls is now.
