Silence is not an option when lives are at stake. 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children 2025 is more than just a campaign—it’s a nationwide call to action. Every year, from November, South Africans unite to raise awareness, honour survivors and advocate for meaningful change. This year’s 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children 2025 serves as a powerful reminder that protecting women and children is everyone’s responsibility.
From 25 November to 10 December, South Africa observes the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children — a global campaign with a deeply local impact. In 2025, the initiative once again calls on every South African to confront one of the country’s most urgent human rights issues: gender-based violence (GBV) and the abuse of women and children.
This campaign is not just about awareness. It’s about action, accountability and change. With violence against women and children still widespread, the 16 Days campaign is a platform for communities, individuals, businesses and government to say: enough is enough.
Whether it’s domestic violence, emotional abuse, sexual assault or child neglect, these forms of violence leave lasting physical, psychological and societal scars. The time to break the cycle is now — and it starts with awareness, support and decisive action.
Why the 16 Days Campaign Matters in 2025
South Africa continues to face alarming levels of violence against women and children. According to recent police reports and civil society organisations, thousands of women are abused, raped or murdered each year. Many children grow up in environments marked by fear, trauma and silence.
In 2025, the campaign is more critical than ever because:
- GBV remains one of the most reported crimes in South Africa
- Child abuse cases often go unreported or unprosecuted
- Many survivors don’t speak out due to fear, stigma or lack of support
- Legal, medical and mental health support services are still unequally accessible
The campaign is not only about supporting victims. It’s about changing behaviour, strengthening systems, educating communities and ending impunity. It’s about making South Africa safer for all women and children — no matter their background, age or location.
The 16 Days Timeline and Key Dates
- 25 November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
- 1 December – World AIDS Day (recognising the intersection of violence and health)
- 3 December – International Day of Persons with Disabilities (highlighting the vulnerability of women and children with disabilities to abuse)
- 10 December – International Human Rights Day
These key dates remind us that the fight against violence is tied to human rights, health, equality and justice.
What South Africa Is Doing During the Campaign
The 16 Days of Activism campaign is supported by government departments, non-profit organisations, faith-based groups, schools and civil society networks. During this period, expect to see:
- Awareness marches and rallies in cities and townships
- Workshops and dialogues on GBV prevention, legal rights and support services
- Media campaigns and survivor stories shared across TV, radio and social media
- Community-based outreach programmes, especially in rural areas
- School and youth events to educate learners about consent, safety and respectful relationships
Importantly, the campaign is not just about women — men and boys are also encouraged to speak out against violence, support survivors and challenge harmful gender norms.
ALSO READ: Gender Based Violence – the shame of South Africa
What You Can Do to Help
You don’t need to be a social worker or activist to make a difference. Everyone has a role to play in ending violence. Here’s how you can help:
- Speak out when you witness abuse or hear harmful comments
- Support survivors by believing them and helping them access help
- Teach children about boundaries, respect and empathy
- Donate to shelters and counselling centres that support women and children
- Challenge toxic masculinity and promote emotional literacy among boys and men
- Share information online using hashtags like #16DaysOfActivism and #NoExcuse
Even small actions can change lives — and save them.
YOU MUST READ: How Violence Against Women Will Affect Their Children
FAQs
Why does the campaign last for 16 days?
The campaign runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day), symbolising that violence is a human rights violation.
Is this campaign only about physical abuse?
No. It includes all forms of violence — physical, emotional, sexual, economic and psychological — against women and children.
How can I get involved as a man?
Men are encouraged to take a stand by challenging other men’s behaviour, speaking up against sexism and being active allies in the fight against GBV.
Where can survivors get help in South Africa?
Survivors can contact the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre at 0800 428 428, or use the 1207867# mobile service for assistance. Local NGOs also offer counselling, shelters and legal advice.
What happens after the 16 Days?
While the campaign lasts 16 days, the call to action must continue year-round. The aim is to make the momentum permanent and support ongoing reform, awareness and advocacy.
From Awareness to Action
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children 2025 is not just a campaign — it’s a lifeline. It’s a collective promise to create a safer, more just and more compassionate South Africa for every woman and child.
So don’t be silent. Start the conversation, take the pledge and be part of the change. Because ending violence isn’t just a women’s issue — it’s a human issue. And the time to act is now.
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