The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed every year on 25 November. It raises global awareness about gender-based violence and honors the legacy of the Mirabal sisters, who were assassinated in 1960 for opposing dictatorship in the Dominican Republic.
đ Origins and History
- Mirabal sisters: Three sisters (Patria, Minerva, MarĂa Teresa) were murdered on 25 November 1960 under Rafael Trujilloâs regime. Their courage inspired feminist movements worldwide UNESCO.
- UN recognition: In 1993, the UN defined gender-based violence as a human rights violation. In 1999, the UN officially designated 25 November as the International Day UNESCO The Council of Europe.
- Global campaign: The day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, running until 10 December (International Human Rights Day) United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
đ Current Relevance
- Scale of violence: Nearly 1 in 3 women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime Naciones Unidas.
- Femicide statistics: According to the UN, 137 women and girls are killed every day by intimate partners or family members â one death every 10 minutes TheJournal.ie.
- Digital violence: The UNâs 2025 campaign focuses on online abuse, harassment, and exploitation of women and girls Naciones Unidas.
- Calls for reform: Families of victims and activists demand systemic changes in policing, sentencing, and prevention measures Sky News.
â Global Action
- UNiTE campaign: A UN initiative urging governments, civil society, and individuals to take coordinated action against violence.
- Commonwealth statement: Leaders emphasize dismantling the âmachinery of controlâ that normalizes violence Commonwealth.
- Local initiatives: In Ireland, Womenâs Aid launched new programs to educate communities on supporting survivors RTĂ Ireland.
đ Why It Matters
This day is not just symbolic â it is a rallying point for governments, NGOs, and citizens to confront one of the most pervasive human rights violations. It reminds us that violence against women is not âordinaryâ but systemic, requiring courage and collective action to dismantle.
Mirabal sisters Statue Picture by RĂŽmulo Serpa for AgĂȘncia CNJ on Flickr
