The global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a key international moment to call for an end to violence against women and girls. It runs from 25th November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) until 10th December, Human Rights Day.
The theme for this year is, “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls”.
Our Activities for this Year's 16 Days of Activism
In line with our commitment to promoting the sexual and reproductive health of girls and women in Africa, we are collaborating with some of our partners to launch the #MyFGMStory social media campaign to raise awareness of and call for the elimination of Female Genital Mutilation.
Female Genital Mutilation/ Cutting (FGM/C) is a deeply concerning practice that affects millions of girls and women worldwide. It involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, often performed without consent, and it poses severe physical, emotional, and psychological dangers.
FGM has no medical benefits; it only inflicts pain and suffering. It can lead to immediate complications such as severe bleeding, infections, and difficulties in urination, and long-term consequences include chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, and childbirth complications. Beyond the physical harm, FGM is a grave violation of human rights, robbing girls and women of their autonomy over their own bodies.
The dangers of FGM extend to perpetuating gender inequality and cultural harm. It is rooted in harmful traditions and beliefs, reinforcing gender discrimination and control over women. It is essential to raise awareness about FGM and work towards its eradication by educating communities and supporting survivors.
Through this campaign, we aim to:
1. Provide a safe space for survivors and advocates to share their experiences anonymously.
2. Contribute to raising awareness about this harmful practice and calling for its elimination.
3. Provide instances useful to inform advocacy strategies and actions.
Gender-Based Violence and its Effect on Women's Economic Participation.
Beyond the emotional and psychological effects of intimate partner violence/abuse on women, this form of violence can also negatively impact women's economic participation.
We will be hosting a discussion on X (formerly Twitter), to discuss the hidden signs of abusive relationships and how they negatively affect women's economic activities.
By collective action, we can achieve a world where girls and women are free from all forms of violence. It's time to act!
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