International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed on November 25th and is designed to raise awareness about the fact that women around the world are subject to a variety of different kinds of violence—including domestic violence and sexual assault.

Although leaders all over the world have led the charge of eradicating the problem of violence against women, there is still considerable work that needs to be done. Violence against women continues, both on a local and a global basis, and the problem has to be properly addressed.

The History of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The history of this day can be traced back to 1960. This is when the three Mirabal sisters were assassinated on the orders of Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo. The sisters were political activists who opposed Trujillo’s regime.

In 1981, activists at the Latin American and Caribbean Feminist Encuentros decided on the anniversary of that day, November 25th, as the day to raise awareness about violence against women. Through their work, the United Nations passed a resolution on December 17, 1999, to make International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women an official day.

Facts & Figures About Violence Against Women

As we researched this day, we came across some disturbing facts about violence against women. Below are some of the facts and figures that we’ve uncovered throughout our research—facts that we hope will open everybody’s eyes to the persistent problem of violence experienced by women all over the world.

• Over a third of women in the world have experienced physical or sexual violence.
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, calls to violence helplines increased by over 500% in some countries.
• Almost 150 women are killed by a member of their family every single day.
• Less than 40% of women who experience violence seek or receive any help.
• At least 200 million women, aged 15-50, have undergone female genital mutilation in the world.
• Female genital mutilation is practiced in 31 countries in the world.
• Approximately 10% of women in the EU have experienced cyber-harassment since the age of 15.
• Approximately 15 million adolescent girls aged 15-19 have experienced forced sex.

Observing International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Those of you who wish to participate in this day can do so by taking action in your community. You can organize a march or reach out to women who have experienced violence. You can also give money or time to an organization that deals with violence against women. You can also take part in the UNITE Campaign—a campaign that was launched in 2008 as a way to prevent and eliminate violence against women.