THE ‘16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’ is a global campaign observed annually from November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). Its core purpose is to galvanise efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. This year’s theme, ‘United for Justice: Ending Violence Against Women and Girls,’ emphasises collective action to dismantle systemic inequalities and end gender-based violence. In Bangladesh, this campaign holds profound significance, resonating with the nation’s ongoing struggles and aspirations for gender equality and social justice. It also embraces deep relevance, reflecting both the strides made and the challenges that remain in addressing violence against women and girls. Despite progress in areas like education and women’s economic participation, gender-based violence persists as a significant barrier to achieving gender equality and social justice. The theme reinforces the importance of unified efforts across sectors — government, civil society, and grassroots movements — to create a society where every woman and girl can live free from violence and discrimination.
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Context of violence against women
BANGLADESH has made notable strides in gender equality, achieving gender parity in primary and secondary education and increasing women’s participation in the workforce. However, violence against women remains a pervasive issue. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics Violence Against Women Survey 2021 reveals that 50 per cent of women in the country have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime. The pandemic Covid exacerbated this issue, with reports of domestic violence surging during lockdowns.
Cultural norms, economic dependency, and inadequate enforcement of laws perpetuate gender-based violence. Initiatives like the 16 Days of Activism offer a platform to address these systemic challenges by fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and mobilising stakeholders across sectors.
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Significance of campaign
FOR Bangladesh, the 16 Days of Activism is not merely an international observance but a call to action. Each year, government bodies, civil society organisations, educational institutions, and grassroots activists organise events, workshops, and campaigns to challenge gender-based violence and promote gender equality. The campaign provides an opportunity to reflect on progress, identify gaps, and strengthen collective efforts.
Raising awareness at the grassroots: Community-based organisations play a pivotal role in translating the campaign’s global message into local action. In rural areas, where gender-based violence is often normalised, initiatives during the 16 Days of Activism include street plays, community dialogues, and awareness drives. These efforts help break the silence surrounding abuse, empowering survivors to speak out and seek help.
Engaging young people: Young people are crucial allies in the fight against gender-based violence. Schools and universities often organise debates, art competitions, and theatre performances during the campaign to educate students about consent, healthy relationships, and gender equity. This engagement not only sensitises the younger generation but also nurtures a culture of respect and equality.
Advocacy and policy influence: The 16 Days of Activism serves as a platform for advocacy, urging policymakers to prioritise gender-based violence in national agendas. Activists and organisations use this period to push for the implementation of existing laws, such as the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010, and advocate for new measures to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
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Challenges in gender-based violence
WHILE the 16 Days of Activism brings attention to gender-based violence, challenges remain in translating awareness into action. Key obstacles include:
Cultural and social barriers: Deeply ingrained patriarchal norms often justify violence as a disciplinary measure, discouraging women from reporting abuse. Changing these attitudes requires long-term investment in education and community engagement.
Weak legal and institutional frameworks: Despite progressive laws, enforcement remains inconsistent. Survivors face hurdles in accessing justice due to stigma, corruption, and lengthy legal processes.
Resource constraints: Shelters, counselling services, and legal aid for survivors are limited, particularly in rural areas. Increased investment in these resources is critical to ensure holistic support for victims.
Intersectionality of violence: Marginalised groups, such as ethnic minorities, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities, often face compounded forms of violence. Addressing gender-based violence requires an intersectional approach that considers these diverse experiences.
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Opportunities for change
THE 16 Days of Activism in Bangladesh also highlights opportunities to accelerate progress:
Leveraging technology: Mobile apps, helplines, and online campaigns have emerged as powerful tools to support survivors and raise awareness. Initiatives like the Joyeeta Foundation’s helpline for women entrepreneurs demonstrate how technology can bridge gaps in support services.
Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between government, NGOs, and the private sector can amplify the impact of gender-based violence interventions. For instance, corporate sponsorships for awareness campaigns can expand their reach and sustainability.
Fostering male allyship: Engaging men and boys in gender-based violence prevention is essential to dismantling patriarchal norms. Programmes like the HeforShe campaign have successfully mobilised male allies to advocate for gender equality.
Integrating gender-based violence prevention in education: Incorporating topics such as consent, gender stereotypes, and healthy relationships into the national curriculum can instill values of respect and equality from an early age.
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Looking ahead: beyond 16 days
WHILE the 16 Days of Activism is a powerful catalyst for change, addressing gender-based violence requires sustained efforts throughout the year. This includes:
Strengthening survivor support systems: Establishing more shelters, counselling centres, and legal aid services.
Ensuring accountability: Holding perpetrators accountable through swift and fair legal processes.
Promoting economic empowerment: Reducing women’s dependency on abusive partners by expanding access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities.
Measuring impact: Regularly monitoring and evaluating gender-based violence interventions to identify gaps and refine strategies.
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Conclusion
THE 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a vital opportunity for Bangladesh to reaffirm its commitment to gender equality and social justice. By harnessing the energy and momentum of this campaign, the nation can pave the way for a future where every individual, regardless of gender, lives free from violence and fear. However, this vision will only become a reality through collective action, sustained advocacy, and unwavering determination to address the root causes of gender-based violence. Let the 16 Days of Activism be a reminder that the fight for gender equality is not a sprint but a marathon — a journey that demands resilience, courage, and unity.
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Musharraf Tansen is a development analyst and former country representative of Malala Fund.