What do we do?

Gender-based violence is far too often trivialized and tabooed in Switzerland and worldwide. Through its diverse events, the campaign contributes to raising awareness and combating this form of violence.

The campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence” was launched in 1991 by Women’s Global Leadership. The 16 days of action always begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and conclude on December 10, Human Rights Day. These dates are meant to emphasize that women’s rights are human rights. Gender-based violence is always a violation of human rights.

The Goal of the 16 Days of Activism

The project contributes to the reduction of all forms of violence in Switzerland and Liechtenstein through prevention and awareness-raising. The campaign provides information about existing support and counseling services and mobilizes numerous people to actively take a stand against violence. To achieve this, low-threshold events, workshops, and cultural activities—as well as online and social media initiatives—are developed and offered over the course of 16 days.

To highlight the many forms of violence and to make clear that gender-based violence is a multidimensional problem, a specific focus theme is developed each year.

History

Since 1991, over 5,000 organizations in more than 187 countries have supported the international campaign. Switzerland joined in 2008, when Frieda – the Feminist Peace Organisation launched the campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence” locally. Since then, around 180 human rights organizations contribute each year with a wide range of events and activities.

In 2023, the 16 Days of Action will expand beyond German-speaking Switzerland to include Romandy and Ticino for the first time. Together with partner organizations, numerous events will raise awareness and promote a violence-free society. Talking openly about violence—including its often invisible forms—makes it visible and is the first step toward prevention. The 16 Days of Action continue to drive progress toward a more equal and non-violent society.

Frieda – The Feminist Peace Organization

In 2008, Frieda – the Feminist Peace Organisation launched the campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence” in Switzerland for the first time. Since then, Frieda has been coordinating the implementation of the campaign in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.