16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE: Taking a Stand Together

Each year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the global community observes 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This powerful campaign serves as a rallying cry for individuals, organizations and governments worldwide to unite in the fight against all forms of violence inflicted on women and girls.

At Lead Child Africa, we strongly believe that this period is not just a moment for reflection, but a call to action – a time to strengthen commitments, amplify voices and take concrete steps towards a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from violence and discrimination.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harmful acts perpetrated against an individual because of his or her gender. While it disproportionately affects women and girls, anyone can be a victim of GBV, including men, boys, and gender-diverse individuals.

Forms of Gender-Based Violence.

1. Physical Violence: Domestic violence, assault, or physical harm inflicted by intimate partners or others.
2. Sexual Violence: Rape, sexual harassment, and trafficking for sexual exploitation.
3. Mental Abuse: Emotional manipulation, threats, and controlling behavior.
4. Economic Violence: Denial of financial independence, resources, or opportunities.

Global Statistics

• 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime.
• 137 women are killed by a family member every day.
• 15 million adolescent girls worldwide have experienced forced sex or other sexual acts.

These numbers represent individuals whose lives have been irrevocably affected by GBV. Behind every statistic is a story of pain, resilience, and hope-a call to action for all of us.

Why 16 Days of Activism Matters

The 16 DaysThe 16 Days of Activism campaign highlights the pervasive nature of GBV while creating space for conversation, education, and action. Each year, the campaign adopts a theme to focus efforts and inspire a collective movement. For 2024, the theme is “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Key Campaign Goals

1. Raise awareness: Highlight the causes and consequences of GBV.
2. Advocate for Policy Change: Encourage governments to enact and enforce laws that protect victims.
3. Empower Communities: Equip individuals with the knowledge and resources to take a stand against violence.
4. Support Survivors: Emphasize the importance of access to support services, including shelters, counseling, and legal assistance. Our Role in the Fight Against GBV

At Lead Child Africa, our mission is rooted in empowering communities, advocating for children’s rights, and promoting violence-free environments. During this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we are spearheading initiatives that address the root causes of GBV while supporting survivors and educating communities on prevention strategies.

Our 16 Days of Activism Initiatives

1. Community Awareness Campaigns: Using local radio, social media, and community events to share information about GBV and available resources for survivors.
2. Workshops for Men and Boys: Promoting positive masculinity, challenging harmful stereotypes, and encouraging respect for women and girls.
3. Youth Dialogues: Creating safe spaces for young people to discuss GBV, consent, and healthy relationships.
4. Empowerment Programs for Women and Girls: Providing skills training and education to increase independence and resilience.
5. Survivor Support Services: Partnering with local organizations to provide counseling, shelter, and legal assistance to survivors of GBV.

How You Can Join the Movement

1. Educate yourself and others.
   Learn about GBV, its causes, and its impact on communities. Share what you learn with friends, family, and colleagues to spark meaningful conversations.
2. Advocate for policy change.
   Write to your local representatives and urge them to prioritize laws and policies that protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
3. Support Survivors.
   Volunteer your time, donate to organizations that support survivors, or lend your professional expertise to initiatives that address GBV.
4. Participate in social media campaigns.
   Leverage your online presence to raise awareness. Share facts, resources, and survivor stories using hashtags such as #16Days, #EndGBV, and #UniteToEndViolence.
5. Join our campaign.
   Support Lead Child Africa by attending our events, sharing our resources, and donating to our cause. Together, we can create safe spaces for children, women, and vulnerable populations in Cameroon and beyond.

A Call to Action

As we begin this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we invite you to take a stand. Violence against women, children, and marginalized groups is not inevitable – it is preventable. Ever A Call to Action

As we begin this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we invite you to take a stand. Violence against women, children, and marginalized groups is not inevitable – it is preventable. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a world where dignity, equality, and safety are the norm.

At Lead Child Africa, we are committed to building that future, but we cannot do it alone.Visit our website leadchildafrica.org to learn more about our initiatives and how you can help.

Let’s unite to end gender-based violence. Join us in turning the tide and creating a brighter, safer future for all.

Share your voice We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, experiences, or stories of resilience in the comments below or tag us on social media. Let’s inspire each other and show that together we are unstoppable.