A global movement uniting individuals and organisations in more than 180 countries to call for an end to violence against women and girls

From 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day), these 16 days remind us that gender-based violence (GBV) is not inevitable — it is preventable. It thrives in silence, stigma, and inequality. And it ends when we replace apathy with action.

Gender-based violence takes many forms: physical assault, emotional and financial abuse, coercive control, sexual violence, sextortion, trafficking, and technology-facilitated harm. For many survivors, the violence is compounded by fear — fear of not being believed, of being blamed, or of losing safety, work, or community.

But across the world, and right here in Australia, survivors and advocates are leading change. They are rewriting laws, demanding accountability, and transforming pain into purpose.

Pink Cross stands with them

Their mission is to support individuals affected by sexual exploitation and to create a world where compassion, consent, and equity guide every interaction. Ending GBV means addressing the systems that enable harm — from victim-blaming attitudes to gendered power imbalances — and ensuring that survivors have access to justice, mental health care, and safe spaces to rebuild.

Here’s how you can take part during the 16 Days of Activism

🧡 Learn: Educate yourself about different forms of gender-based violence, including online exploitation and coercion. Understanding is the first step toward prevention.
🧡 Speak: Challenge harmful jokes, language, and behaviours that normalise violence or disrespect. Silence protects perpetrators — conversation drives change.
🧡 Act: Support survivor-led organisations, attend awareness events, or donate to services providing crisis care and counselling.
🧡 Share: Use your platform, big or small, to amplify messages of equality, safety, and hope.
🧡 Wear Orange: The campaign colour symbolises a brighter future, free from violence and fear.

Violence thrives in hidden spaces — online, behind closed doors, or within systems that fail to protect. But together, our collective voices can pierce the silence. Every message shared, every survivor supported, every act of compassion counts.

As this year’s global theme reminds us, “UNiTE! End digital violence against all women and girls.” Prevention is not only about policy or funding, but how we treat each other every day.

Q Magazine: supporting women & girls in our community since 2004