International Day For The Eliminatir of Violence Against Women is a day that’s observed on November 25th and is designed to raise awareness about the fact that women around the world are subject to a variety of different kinds of violence—including domestic violence and sexual assault. Although leaders all over the world have led the charge on eradicating the problem of violence against women, there is still considerable work that needs to be done. Violence against women continues, both on a local and a global basis, and the problem has to be properly addressed.

The History Of International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women

The history of this day can be traced back to 1960. This is when three Mirabal sisters were assassinated on order by Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. The sisters were political activists who opposed Trujillo’s regime. In 1981, activists at the Latin American And Caribbean Feminist Encuentros decided on the anniversary of that day, November 25th, as the day to raise awareness about violence against women. Through their work, the United Nations would pass a resolution on December 17, 1999, to make International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women, an official day.

Facts & Figures About Violence Against Women

As we researched this day, we came across some disturbing facts about violence against women. Below are some of the facts and figures that we’ve uncovered over the course of our research. Facts that we hope will open everybody’s eyes to the persistent problem of violence that’s experienced by women all over the world.

• Over a third of the women in the world have experienced physical or sexual violence.
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, call to violence helplines increased by over 500% in some countries.
• Almost 150 women are killed by a member of their family every single day.
• Less than 40% of women who experience violence will seek or receive any help.
• At least 200 million women, ages 15-50, have undergone female genital mutilation in the world.
• Genital mutilation of women is practiced in 31 countries in the world.
• Approximately 10% of women in the EU have experienced cyber-harassment since age 15.
• Approximately 15 million girls aged 15-19 have experienced forced sex.

Observing International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women

Those of you who are wishing to participate on this day can do so by taking action in your community. You can organize a march or reach out to women who have experienced violence against them. You can also give money or time to an organization that deals with violence against women. You can also take part in the UNITE Campaign—a campaign that was launched in 2008 as a way to prevent and eliminate violence against women.