Today marks the celebration of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Observed every year on November 25th, this day aims to create awareness about the rising cases of violence inflicted against women and how it can be stopped. It is observed by the UN. So it is not really a celebration but a very important day that focuses on an important issue. The United Nations observes this ‘End of Violence Day’ to raise awareness against violence – rape, domestic violence, eve-teasing, acid attack, human trafficking etc. – which women across the world face on a day-to-day basis.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2019 Date

The ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women’ is celebrated on November around the world November 25, every year. The first observance of this event took place in 1960, after the assassination of Mirabal Sisters, political activists whose killings were ordered by the then Republic of Dominic dictator Rafael Trujillo. In 1981, some activists at Latin American & Caribbean Feminist Encuentros designated the date of November 25 to raise awareness against violence on women. It was in 1999, when the United Nations (UN) officially passed a resolution declaring November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Theme of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2019

The official theme of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2019 is ‘Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands against Rape’. Like every year, this year will also see activism spread across the next 16 days, which eventually concludes on December 10 – which is also the International Human Rights Day. In 2018, the theme of this global event was Orange the World: #HearMeToo.

Significance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2019

The basic motive of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is to end the various forms of violence women have to face in her life. Be it physically, emotionally, or verbally, the brutality against females have to come to an end – is what observing the day is all about. The ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women’ raises awareness through campaigns, marches, workshops, and other societal functions, where people are informed against the heightened crimes against women. They are also urged to do their bit in eradicating this societal bane.

People are encouraged to be more open-minded, more educated about the flaws that exist in our system. It is important for individuals to know about the types of violence women and girls experience in their life. It is a kind of human rights violation which largely goes unnoticed and unreported in parts of the world. Violence against women is ill for society. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women aims to reduce and eventually remove such ills. As November 25 nears, we at LatestLY hope you contribute your bit to end the violence against women and make this world a better place to live in.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 25, 2019 11:29 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).