- Advertisement -
ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):Countries across the globe today observed the International Day for the elimination of violence against women, reaffirming their commitment to ending gender-based violence and supporting survivors through legislative, social and institutional reforms.
The United Nations, governments, civil society organizations and human rights groups held events, awareness campaigns and policy dialogues to highlight the alarming rates of violence faced by women and girls worldwide. The day also marks the launch of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs until 10 December.
In his message for the day, UN leadership stressed that violence against women remains “one of the most pervasive human rights violations,” calling for urgent investment in prevention, stronger legal protections, and survivor-centered services.
Experts highlighted that gender-based violence continues to affect women in homes, workplaces, public spaces and online environments.
Commemorated every year on 25 November, the observance honors the memory of the Mirabal sisters—three Dominican activists assassinated in 1960—and serves as a global reminder that ending violence against women is essential to achieving equality, justice and sustainable development.
Governments worldwide used the occasion to renew commitments to protect women’s rights, strengthen enforcement of laws, and promote public awareness aimed at changing harmful social norms. Advocacy groups emphasized that meaningful progress requires coordinated action from state institutions, communities and individuals.
The day concludes with calls for continued global solidarity to ensure that all women and girls can live free from violence, discrimination and fear.