16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

This global campaign for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual call to action that runs from November 25th( International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10th (Human Rights Day).

It’s a time to come together and raise awareness of the widespread incidence of gender-based violence and demand that it be ended, while supporting those who have suffered from it.
At The Health Gospel, we understand that these 16 days serve to shone a light on the urgency of addressing violence against women and girls and to encourage concrete actions that each of us can take to make a difference.

A Primer on Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence (GBV) is an umbrella term which refers to harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender. Although violence can happen to men, too, the vast majority of those killed, mutilated, tortured and abused in all ways and means are women and girls. This violence is not just physical, it can also be emotional, economic or financial, leaving permanent scars on the victims.

Here we’ll see some types of gender-based violence:

1. Physical Violence: Assault; trafficking; slavery; femicide; honor killings.

2. Emotional Abuse: Humiliation, confinement, intimidation, social exclusion, and body shaming.

3. Economic and Financial Abuse: Controlling finances, keeping a partner from a job and denying money for life necessities.

Things You Can Do to End Violence Against Women
Awareness of the problem isn’t enough — we must act. Over these 16 days of activism, think about how to infuse the below (and not limited to) into daily life. Even little things can exert a powerful force.

1. Watch for the Signs: Always be on the lookout for signs of abuse— physical injuries, emotional detachment, or drastic changes in behavior may mean that someone sure could use help.

2. Learn to Listen When Confronted: Survivors often feel more alone. Offer to listen if someone reaches out to you and listen.

3. Believe the Victim: The first step when you hear a report is to believe the victim. Being in denial only continues the cycle of abuse.

4. Avoid inaction: If you suspect abuse, don’t remain quiet. Reporting can help stop the cycle of violence.

5. Support GBV Related Dialogue (Talk to Family) engage in conversation with friends, family, or community about GBV Awareness starts at home.

6. Demand Justice: Work for laws and policies that protect victims from harm and hold offenders accountable.

7. Volunteer with Organisations — Help groups like Women’s Aid Centre, The Health Gospel CIC or your local police. places that are working to help survivors.

8. Make an Impact: Do things in your community to raise awareness and motivate others to take action.

Key Organizations for Support
If you are experiencing gender-based violence or anyone you know, please do not hesitate to seek help.


There are a number of organizations that offer support, guidance and resources:


1. Women’s Aid Centre: An important source of support that provides help and refuge for domestic violence victims.

2. Health Gospel CIC: Our own community initiative which provides education, advocacy and resources to eradicate gender-based violence

3. The Police: Officers have an important role in protecting victims and prosecuting abusers.


It’s on Us to End Gender-Based Violence
As we observe these 16 days, let’s not just reflect on the problem but hold ourselves accountable to take action; It also takes commitment from individuals, communities, and institutions to end gender-based violence. It’s not just a global problem — it’s a local one. Everyone has a part to play to make the world a safer place for women and girls.

We can do it by standing together, raising our voices, and supporting organizations that fight for some justice so that we can build a violent-free world. The Health Gospel stands with survivors and calls on all to stand together in this crucial battle. With you, we can create a lasting impact.
Let’s not waste these 16 days of activism.

Call to Action: For anyone or their someone who are facing Gender-based violence don’t think twice and get in touch with different support organizations available in your area or contact with The Health Gospel CIC to learn how you can get help or be part of this cause. And together we will make a difference.