The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (16 Days Campaign) is a United Nations campaign which takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign will take place between 25 November and 10 December 2024 under the theme: “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children”. This year’s campaign emphasizes addressing the root causes of GBVF, promoting positive masculinity, promoting gender equity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children. At its core, the theme aims to accelerate and amplify multisectoral and whole-of-society accountability. The official event for the 2024 campaign launch will be held on the 25 November 2024 in the North-West

Other key commemorative days during this period include World Aids Day on the 1st December and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, on 3 December of every year.

Given the scourge of Gender-Based violence in the country, which is declared a national address, government is implementing the Emergency Response Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, which was announced by President Cyril in September 2019.

The 16 Days Campaign forms the centre point of government’s comprehensive 365 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.

During the 16 Days period, Government together with civil society and the private sector will host a series of community and sector dialogues and activities to foster a collaborative effort in dealing with GBVF.

For communities

  1. Be an activist against GBV in your homes, communities, work and positions:

Challenge cultures and practices that perpetuate gender inequalities and consequent abuse of women and children at personal and societal level.

  1. Play your part:
  • Reject and report abusers- Act and don’t look away!
  • Do not protect abusers, report them!
  • Sign the Pledge Against Gender-Based Violence. Do not engage in abusive activities and become an abuser- Stop abuse.
  • Challenge and denounce cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities
  • Be sensitive and supportive to GBV victims – share helpful information and support causes near you.
  • Seek personal help to change harmful behaviors such as alcohol and substance abuse
  • Teach children values of gender equality
  • Protect children from exposure to violence and harmful content on internet and social media, including pornography, sexual solicitation
  • Develop policies that prevent and deal with gender based violence in your sector, workplace and communities.
  • Organise targeted community outreach and dialogues on solution towards a gender equal society.

Together, let us take actions to support the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign

Source: 16 Days of Activism | South African Government