International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: Standing in solidarity with ALL women

Today, November 25, the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, designated by the United Nations General Assembly under Resolution 54/134. This day serves as a powerful reminder that violence against ALL women – whether in the form of rape, domestic abuse, or other systemic harms – is a pervasive issue that affects millions globally. It also highlights that the true scale of this violence is often hidden.

The 2025 theme is “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.” As technology becomes central to daily life, women – including trans women – are increasingly targeted by online harassment, cyberstalking, image-based abuse, and other forms of digital violence. This theme highlights the urgent need to make both physical and digital spaces safe and inclusive for all women.

Over the years, campaigns such as “Orange Your Neighbourhood”, “Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls”, and other initiatives have mobilized communities worldwide to raise awareness, advocate for prevention, and support survivors. Today, these efforts extend to the digital realm, recognizing that violence in online spaces is as real and harmful as in-person abuse.

It is vital to remember that ending violence against women requires an intersectional, inclusive approach. Trans women, who face disproportionate risks of violence both offline and online due to intersecting forms of discrimination, must be fully included in prevention efforts, policy responses, and survivor support services.

This day also aligns with initiatives such as Roses Revolution Day, established in 2011 to fight obstetric violence, showing that advocacy for women’s safety spans diverse forms of abuse and institutional harms.

Today, we stand in solidarity with survivors, activists, and communities working tirelessly to eliminate violence. Ending violence against women – cisgender and transgender alike – is a global human rights priority.