EUAM Ukraine Marks the 2025 16 Days of Activism Campaign: Standing Together to End Gender-Based Violence
November 25, 2025
Every year, from 25 November to 10 December, the world joins the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence – a global call to action urging governments, institutions and individuals to work together to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls. Beginning on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and concluding on Human Rights Day, the campaign is a reminder that safety, dignity and equality are rights that must be protected every day.
This year’s global theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” reflects the growing need to address violence not only in the physical world, but also across digital spaces. As online harassment, intimidation and technology-facilitated abuse become increasingly common worldwide, strengthening protection in both realms is essential.
For Ukraine, the issue carries additional weight. The ongoing full-scale war has deepened existing vulnerabilities, disrupted social support systems and placed a heavier burden on families, communities and institutions. In such conditions, the risks of gender-based violence rise, while the need for support grows.
EUAM Ukraine stands with its Ukrainian partners in the shared effort to prevent and respond to all forms of gender-based violence – whether domestic, conflict-related or online. Supporting survivor-centred approaches, promoting equality within the civilian security sector, enhancing institutional capacity, and raising awareness of risks and rights form part of the Mission’s broader work throughout the year.
Through training, strategic advice, public communication and cooperation with state institutions and civil society, EUAM continues contributing to stronger, safer and more responsive systems that protect those at risk and ensure accountability for perpetrators. The Mission’s engagement during the 16 Days of Activism is part of this wider commitment, reinforcing long-term efforts rather than limiting them to a single campaign period.
The ‘16 Days of Activism’ offers an important moment to:
highlight the realities faced by survivors;
encourage communities to speak up rather than remain silent;
promote respect, empathy and equality in both private and public life;
and reaffirm that preventing violence begins with collective responsibility.
It also serves as a reminder that addressing gender-based violence is not solely the task of the justice or security sectors but a broader societal obligation – one that requires awareness, cooperation and sustained support.
While the campaign lasts only two weeks, the work it represents continues all year. EUAM Ukraine remains committed to supporting Ukrainian institutions as they strengthen protections, improve access to justice, and ensure that survivors are met with understanding, professionalism and dignity.
Ending gender-based violence is a long-term effort – but it is one that can transform lives and communities. EUAM Ukraine stands with all those who are working toward a future where every person feels safe at home, online, and in every part of their community.
