Violence against women is a global problem, which hinders social, economic and cultural progress. To end this, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is celebrated every year on November 25. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness among the people and take concrete steps to protect the rights of women.
Violence against women: A global problem
Violence against women is not limited to a single person or society. This problem comes in forms such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, child marriage, trafficking and mental harassment. This violence has a profound impact on the physical and mental health of women. This problem harms not only the suffering women but also society and the economy.
History
The decision to celebrate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25 was taken in 1981 at a conference of Latin American and Caribbean feminist activists. The date was chosen in memory of the Mirabal sisters, who were murdered in 1960 while fighting against dictatorship in the Dominican Republic.
In 1999 the United Nations General Assembly officially recognised this day and since then the day has become a global platform for efforts to end violence against women.
Objectives of celebrating this day
- Awareness Raising: Spread information about various forms of violence against women and its ill effects.
- Policy Making: Motivate governments and organisations to make strict laws for the protection of women.
- Social Change: Eliminate patriarchal thinking and build a society based on equality and respect.
How is this day celebrated?
- Education and awareness campaigns: Seminars, workshops and awareness programmes are organised at schools, colleges and workplaces.
- Demonstrations and marches: Women and people in their support march on the streets to demand their rights.
- Social media campaigns: Hashtag campaigns are run on digital platforms, such as #OrangeTheWorld and #EndViolenceAgainstWomen.
- Government initiatives: Various governments and NGOs announce new schemes on this occasion.
Important Initiatives
- United Nations Campaign: The United Nations started this initiative in 2008, in which awareness campaigns are run against violence for 16 days from November 25 to December 10 every year.
- Symbol of Orange Color: The symbol of this day is the color “orange”, which indicates a bright future and a society free from violence against women.
Conclusion
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women not only symbolizes the protection of women’s rights, but it also inspires every individual to bring about a change in society. Unless all communities, institutions and governments unite in the fight against violence, the solution to this problem is not possible. We should take inspiration from this day and make the idea of respect and equality towards women a part of our lives.
FAQs
Q: What is the symbolic color of this day and why?
Ans: The symbolic color of this day is orange, which symbolizes a bright future and a violence-free society.
Q: Who were the Mirabal sisters?
Ans: The Mirabal sisters were three women from the Dominican Republic who fought against the dictatorship and were assassinated on November 25, 1960.
Q: Why is this day celebrated on November 25?
Ans: This day has been chosen to commemorate the sacrifice of the Mirabal sisters.
Q: What are the main objectives of celebrating this day?
Ans: To end violence against women, bring equality in society and create policies to help the victims.
Q: What is the “Unite” campaign?
Ans: It is a global campaign of the United Nations, which spreads awareness for 16 days to end violence against women.
Also read:
- Women Safety in India: About, Law and Policies
- Summary of Women Empowerment Policy in India: Overview
