Eliminate Violence Against Women Day

The observance highlights the urgent need to eliminate all forms of violence against women, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, human trafficking, child marriage, female genital mutilation, and online abuse. Governments, NGOs, educational institutions, and international organizations conduct awareness campaigns, educational programs, workshops, and advocacy events to strengthen legal protections, empower women, and encourage communities to challenge harmful social norms. The day also marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, ending on 10 December (Human Rights Day).

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was officially designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 through Resolution 54/134. The date commemorates the assassination of the Mirabal sisters—Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa Mirabal—on 25 November 1960 in the Dominican Republic. The sisters were political activists who opposed the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo and became global symbols of resistance against violence and oppression. Their deaths inspired international efforts to address violence against women. Today, the observance is recognized worldwide, encouraging governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to strengthen laws, support survivors, and eliminate all forms of gender-based violence.

This observance has no official religious significance, but it carries profound humanitarian, social, and human rights importance. It promotes dignity, equality, justice, and respect for women and girls regardless of culture, nationality, religion, or background. The day encourages communities to reject discrimination, harmful practices, and violence while fostering safe, inclusive, and respectful environments. It also emphasizes the shared responsibility of governments, institutions, families, and individuals to protect women's rights, support survivors, and create societies where everyone can live with safety, freedom, and equal opportunities.

Observe the day by participating in awareness campaigns, educational seminars, community discussions, or public events promoting gender equality and violence prevention. Wear orange, the global color representing a future free from violence against women, to show solidarity. Schools and workplaces can organize workshops on respectful relationships, consent, and women's rights. Individuals can support organizations that provide services to survivors, volunteer, donate, or share verified information to raise awareness. Although there are no official rituals, the day is best observed by promoting respect, equality, and collective action to end violence against women and girls.