16 Days Of Activism
South Africa, the festive season isn’t the only thing arriving in November. It’s also the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a campaign that should stop us all in our tracks. For 16 days, the world unites to fight gender-based violence (GBV), challenge harmful norms, and stand in solidarity with survivors. But what is this campaign all about, and why does it matter so much, especially here in Mzansi? Let’s unpack it.
What Is 16 Days of Activism?
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children is a global initiative that runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day. This timeline symbolises the deep connection between ending GBV and promoting fundamental human rights.
The campaign was first launched in 1991 by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute. Today, it’s backed by the United Nations, with countries across the globe adding their voices to the fight.
In South Africa, this year’s campaign theme is “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children”, with a special focus on “Harnessing technology and innovation to combat Gender-Based Violence and accelerate a gender-inclusive digital economy.” The message is clear: collaboration, innovation, and empowerment are essential to eradicating violence.
This year’s campaign will officially launch on 25 November 2024 in Rustenburg, North West Province, led by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing GBV and femicide (GBVF).
Why Is This Campaign So Important?
The devastating impact of GBV can’t be overstated. It’s not just a “women’s issue”; it’s a societal crisis that affects every aspect of life—from families and workplaces to communities and national development.
Gender-Based Violence in South Africa
South Africa faces a GBV epidemic. According to the HSRC National Gender-Based Violence Study 2022:
- 35.5% of women aged 18 and older have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
- 9.8% have faced sexual violence specifically.
- 57.6% have experienced controlling behaviour from partners.
- A shocking 77.2% of men admit to perpetrating controlling behaviours.
GBV is not limited to physical abuse. It encompasses emotional, psychological, and financial harm, with survivors often feeling trapped due to societal stigma and economic dependency.
Gender-Based Violence Around the World
South Africa’s crisis reflects a broader global issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and national surveys:
United States
- 1 in 4 women have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence).
- 1 in 5 women have been raped (National Sexual Violence Resource Center).
United Kingdom
- 1 in 4 women have faced domestic abuse since the age of 16 (Office for National Statistics).
- Every week, two women are killed by a current or former partner, highlighting the lethality of GBV in intimate relationships (ONS).
India
- 37% of women report experiencing physical or sexual violence since age 15 (National Family Health Survey).
- 31% have endured violence specifically from an intimate partner (NFHS).
Australia
- 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15 (Australian Bureau of Statistics).
- Every week, two women are killed by a current or former partner, mirroring the UK’s grim statistics (ABS).
Brazil
- 1 in 3 women report lifetime physical or sexual violence (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics).
- On average, four women are killed daily by a partner or family member, according to the Brazilian Forum of Public Security.
These statistics underscore the universal nature of GBV, cutting across cultures, countries, and socioeconomic classes.
The Role of Counselling During 16 Days of Activism
While raising awareness is critical, offering practical support to survivors is just as important. This is where counselling plays a transformative role. Survivors of GBV often experience severe emotional, psychological, and physical trauma, and counselling provides a pathway to recovery and empowerment.
1. Emotional Support
Survivors often carry the weight of stigma, shame, and self-blame. Counselling offers a non-judgmental space to share their experiences and emotions. This support is particularly crucial during the 16 Days of Activism, as the heightened focus on GBV can trigger painful memories for many.
2. Trauma Recovery
Counselling offers evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to address symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These interventions help survivors regain a sense of safety and control in their lives.
3. Breaking the Cycle
GBV often perpetuates across generations. By addressing harmful behaviours in counselling, survivors and perpetrators alike can learn healthier ways to interact and rebuild relationships.
4. Building Resilience
Survivors are not defined by their experiences of violence. Counselling helps them rediscover their strengths, build confidence, and set goals for the future.
5. Promoting Societal Change during 16 Days of Activism
When more individuals access counselling, it reduces the stigma around seeking help. This normalisation encourages a culture of openness and support, which is vital for breaking cycles of violence.
The Role of Technology in Combating GBV
This year’s campaign theme highlights the power of technology to tackle GBV. From creating platforms for survivors to access help to using data to drive policy change, technology can revolutionise how we address violence.
However, technology is a double-edged sword. While it offers tools for empowerment, it can also be used for harm, such as online harassment or stalking. This makes digital education and security a critical component of GBV prevention efforts.
How You Can Help
How to Make a Difference During the 16 Days of Activism
Ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) requires consistent effort and dedication. From educating yourself to advocating for systemic change, every action can contribute to a safer society. Here’s how you can get involved:
Educate Yourself and Others
Knowledge is power when it comes to combating GBV. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to take meaningful action.
Recognise the Signs of GBV
GBV isn’t always obvious. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, or financial abuse. Look out for:
- Unexplained injuries or bruises.
- Signs of control or isolation, like restricted access to finances or communication.
- Sudden changes in behaviour, such as anxiety, fear, or withdrawal.
Understand the Root Causes
GBV is deeply rooted in societal norms and inequalities. Gender stereotypes, toxic masculinity, and systemic power imbalances contribute to a culture that tolerates violence. Educating yourself about these issues can help you address them effectively.
Share Credible Resources
Organisations like UN Women, WHO, and South Africa’s Sonke Gender Justice provide toolkits, studies, and campaigns you can share with your community. Use their materials to spread awareness and foster discussions.
Host Awareness Campaigns
Organise educational events in your local community. Use real-world statistics, such as the fact that 51% of South African women have experienced GBV, to illustrate the severity of the issue.
Support Survivors during 16 Days of Activism
Survivors of GBV often feel silenced and unsupported. Here’s how you can help them reclaim their lives:
Listen Without Judgement
When someone shares their experience, believe them. Avoid victim-blaming language like “Why didn’t you leave?” Instead, say, “I believe you,” or “I’m here to help.”
Help Them Access Professional Services
Survivors may need assistance from counsellors, legal experts, or medical professionals. Share resources like Lifeline South Africa or Mustard Seed Tree, which offer specialised services for survivors.
Respect Their Choices
Survivors need to make decisions about their lives on their own terms. Whether they choose to leave or stay in a situation, support them without judgment.
Provide Practical Assistance
If you’re able, offer tangible support like transportation, childcare, or financial aid. Small actions, such as accompanying them to court or counselling, can make a big difference.
Stay in Touch
The journey to recovery is long. Regularly check in with survivors to remind them that they are not alone.
Challenge Harmful Norms
Cultural norms often perpetuate violence. Breaking these patterns is essential for long-term change.
Call Out Toxic Masculinity
Toxic masculinity glorifies control, dominance, and aggression. Challenge these ideas by promoting respectful behaviour and emotional openness in men and boys.
Address Gender Stereotypes
Encourage flexibility in gender roles. For example, promote women in leadership positions and teach boys that vulnerability is not a weakness.
Speak Up in Social Settings
Don’t let harmful jokes or comments slide. If someone says something problematic, respond with statements like, “That’s not okay,” or “Jokes like that normalize violence.”
Promote Positive Role Models
Highlight men and women who challenge stereotypes, like Siya Kolisi, who uses his platform to advocate for gender equality.
Foster Safer Spaces
Encourage your workplace, school, or community to implement policies against harassment, provide gender sensitivity training, and establish clear reporting mechanisms.
Volunteer Your Time and Skills
Your time and expertise can have a direct impact on organisations fighting GBV.
Join Local Organisations
Nonprofits like Mustard Seed Tree, need volunteers for their programs and campaigns.
Offer Professional Expertise
Use your skills—whether you’re a writer, lawyer, or designer—to support these organisations. For instance, create awareness materials or provide pro bono legal services to survivors.
Support Shelters and Safe Houses
Many shelters face resource shortages. Donate essentials like toiletries, food, and clothing, or organise a community drive to support their work.
Mentor Youth
Get involved with mentorship programmes that teach young people about respect, consent, and equality. Early education is key to breaking cycles of violence.
Participate in Awareness Events
Join marches, vigils, or campaigns during the 16 Days of Activism. Your presence shows solidarity and helps amplify the movement.
Advocate for Change
Systemic issues require systemic solutions. Advocacy can bring about lasting change by holding institutions and governments accountable.
Push for Stronger Policies
Demand legislation that protects survivors and holds perpetrators accountable. Advocate for full enforcement of laws like South Africa’s Domestic Violence Amendment Act.
Increase Resources for Survivors
Survivor support systems are often underfunded. Write to policymakers or join campaigns that push for more public funding for shelters, counselling services, and legal aid.
Engage with Policymakers
Participate in public forums, town halls, or petitions to demand meaningful change. Ensure your voice is heard where decisions are made.
Use Social Media for Advocacy
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are powerful tools for raising awareness. Share survivor stories (with their permission), post statistics, and highlight organisations that need support.
Hold Institutions Accountable
Workplaces, schools, and religious organisations must address GBV proactively. Advocate for gender sensitivity training and transparent reporting systems in these spaces.
- Educ
Final Thoughts on 16 Days of Activism
The 16 Days of Activism is a time to reflect, act, and commit to a world free of violence. For survivors, it’s a reminder that healing and support are possible. For the rest of us, it’s a call to take responsibility.
Let’s not let these 16 days pass us by. Every conversation, every action, and every bit of support matters.
If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to Mustard Seed Tree for compassionate counselling services.
Together, we can make a difference—not just for 16 days but for a lifetime.