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International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Stand together to put an end to violence against women - join us on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women!

Wednesday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 25

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

November 25th marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the issue of gender-based violence and its devastating effects on women and girls around the world. This important day was first established by the United Nations in 1999 as part of its campaign to eliminate all forms of violence against women. Since then, it has grown into an international movement with countless organizations, governments and individuals joining forces to make a stand against such violence. Let's use this day to honor the countless women who have been affected by violence and pledge to work together to eradicate it from our lives for good.

TIMELINE

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women Timeline

Inception of the Cause

Women's activists around the world marked November 25th as a day against gender-based violence in honor of the Mirabal sisters, political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally assassinated in 1960.

"16 Days of Activism"

The first 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence begins and runs from November 25th to December 10th annually, marking a period of intensified focus on eradicating violence against women.

Definition of Gender-Based Violence

The United Nations defines violence against women as any act of gender-based violence resulting in physical, sexual or psychological harm.

UN Recognition

The United Nations General Assembly officially designates November 25th as International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, urging governments worldwide to take action against this issue.

Launch of UNiTE

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon launches UNiTE to End Violence against Women, a campaign aiming to raise public awareness and increase political will and resources for preventing and ending all forms of violence against women and girls.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Organize a donation drive

Organizing a donation drive is a great way to show solidarity with those affected by gender-based violence. You can collect items such as toiletries, books, clothes, or even financial donations.

HOLD

Hold a rally

Organize a rally to raise awareness of the issue and encourage people to take action. Invite speakers from organizations that specialize in gender-based violence and consider arranging for a march.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer

Look for volunteer opportunities in your local area related to violence against women. You could help out at a shelter, teach self defense classes, or provide legal assistance.

DONATE

Donate to organizations

Research organizations that are working to end violence against women and consider donating money or supplies. Donations can go towards providing resources, such as legal aid and crisis hotlines.

RAISE

Raise awareness

Share stories on social media or write an article or blog post about the issue. Encourage your friends and family to join in the fight against gender-based violence.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is Important

It supports survivors

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is also an important day to show support and solidarity with those who have experienced violence, harassment or abuse. Through raising awareness, taking action and offering support, we can help ensure that no woman has to suffer any kind of violence at any stage of life.

It raises awareness

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is an important day because it helps to raise awareness and create dialogue about violence against women. This is a global issue that needs to be discussed in order to ensure that all women are safe and free from harm.

It encourages action

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is also a great opportunity for individuals, groups and organisations to come together to take action against this global problem. By encouraging activism to help stop violence against women, we can make a real difference in our communities and around the world.

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