25th November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day highlights a grim reality: violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread human rights violations globally.
Almost one in three women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual violence, often by an intimate partner.
In 2023, at least 51,100 women were murdered by partners or family members—a shocking statistic that equates to a woman being killed every 10 minutes. This violence is pervasive, extending into workplaces, online spaces, and even intensifying due to factors like conflict and climate change.
A Global Campaign for Change
The 16-day UNiTE campaign (November 25 – December 10) will shine a spotlight on this escalating crisis with its 2024 theme: “Every 10 Minutes, a Woman is Killed. #NoExcuse.” The campaign aims to revitalise commitments, call for accountability, and drive urgent action against gender-based violence.
This initiative ends on 10th December, International Human Rights Day. The significance demonstrates that ending violence against women is essential to achieving equality and upholding human rights.
Violence Against Women: A Persistent Obstacle
The UN defines violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that results in physical, sexual, or psychological harm, including threats, coercion, or deprivation of liberty, whether in public or private life.”
It manifests in various forms, such as:
- Intimate partner violence: psychological abuse, physical harm, marital rape, femicide.
- Sexual violence and harassment: unwanted advances, cyber-harassment, forced marriage.
- Human trafficking and exploitation.
- Female genital mutilation and child marriage.
Some women, including migrants, indigenous people, and those in conflict zones, face even greater risks.
The Situation in Italy
In Italy, 99 women have been murdered since the start of 2024 (as of November 18). Over a third were aged 65 or older, and most were killed by a spouse or child.
Calls to Italy’s 1522 anti-violence helpline surged by 57% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This rise is partly attributed to the shocking murder of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin. Her ex-boyfriend murdered her in November 2023, triggering an outpouring of support and action.
Join the Fight
This International Day is a call to action for everyone. Whether by spreading awareness with hashtags like #NoExcuse, supporting survivors, or advocating for robust national strategies, every effort counts.
A special UN General Assembly event will mark the day’s 25th anniversary, reflecting on progress and challenges. The event will stream live on UN Web TV in six languages from 10 am to 1 pm (New York time).
Resources and Support
If you are experiencing violence or feel unsafe, help is available. Contact Italy’s 1522 helpline, or find international resources on the UN Women website. Together, we can end violence against women and girls.
