25 Nov

UNiTE against Violence to Women & Girls

Courtheath's blog
By

On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we at CourtHeath want to highlight the UNiTE! Campaign to Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls! Participation in the #16daysofactivism contributes to a future free from violence against women and girls.

In 2023, the United Nations is marking this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women with their campaign: UNiTE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls! #NOEXCUSE.

As reported by the UN:

  • Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world.
  • More than 5 women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their family.
  • In 2021, nearly 1 in 5 women aged 20-24 were married before turning 18.
  • One in three women have been subjected to violence at least once in their lifetime.

UNiTE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls! #NOEXCUSE.

The UNiTE initiative, launched in 2008, calls on governments, civil society, women’s organisations, young people, the private sector, media, and the UN system to join forces in addressing the global pandemic of violence against women and girls. This year’s theme calls for multifaceted investment in preventing violence against women in girls.

The UN Women report reveals that just 5% of government aid is focused on tackling violence against women and girls, and less than 0.2% is directed towards prevention.

“We need more investment in women’s organisations, better legislation, prosecution of perpetrators, more services for survivors, and training for law enforcement officials.”

Tackling violence against women and girls can lead to greater stability within families and communities, reduced cost in healthcare, education, social protection, justice, and increased overall productivity. There is an economic benefit to protecting women and girls!

Join the 16 days of activism

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that begins on 25 November 2023, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December 2023, Human Rights Day. This initiative calls for “global actions to increase awareness, galvanise advocacy efforts, and share knowledge and innovations.”

Respect Victoria outlines ways you can get involved:

  • On Friday 24 November 2023, join thousands of Victorians for the 15th annual Walk Against Family Violence.
  • Host or join an event.
  • Share the message on social media: promote the 16 days of Activism Campaign.
  • Start the conversation and get people talking.
  • Donate to a female-led charity to help Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.

Check out the calendar from Respect Victoria below to see how you can get involved in November, December and beyond:

November 2023

  • 24 November: The Walk Against Family Violence marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism in Victoria.
  • 25 November: The 16 Days of Activism officially kicks off on International Day for Eliminating Violence against Women.
  • 25-26 November: The AFL Women’s Grand Final celebrates women in sports, recognising that everyone deserves equal opportunity to participate and to be involved.
  • Maintain regular communication to keep your network informed about your activities.
  • Ensure your community knows where to find additional support by displaying and distributing the Support Services poster (page 35).
  • Remember to look after yourself and practice self-care.

December 2023

  • 3 December: On International Day of People with Disabilities, work in partnership with, or highlight efforts by, organisations led by people with disabilities to promote their rights and agency.
  • 10 December: The 16 Days of Activism conclude on Human Rights Day, commemorating the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption on 10 December 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – a seminal document in human rights history and one of the United Nations’ early achievements.
  • Send a thank you to all participants and supporters, perhaps with a photo from your event or activity, via social media or electronic direct mail (EDM).

And beyond 2023

Stay informed on resources and developments within the prevention and gender equality sector. Consider subscribing to the following newsletters:

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Resources

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A participant in the UN Global Compact, CourtHeath seeks to raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals and the principles of the Global Compact with business and government organisations in Victoria.

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Image: UN Women

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Written by Elizabeth Tower

[category courtheath's blog]

[#NOEXCUSE, #UNITE, #EndViolenceAgainstWomen]

CourtHeath Consulting

CourtHeath Consulting provides expert procurement and probity advice to government and not for profit organisations. We provide specialist consulting services about procurement issues and organisational procurement operations – as well as management of simple and complex tender processes. Our probity audit and advisory services help clients meet government probity standards especially regarding conflict of interest, confidentiality, ethical conduct and corruption risks.