INTERNATIONAL Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW) and the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence (GBV) are annually observed from November 25 to December 10. This observance includes World AIDS Day on December 1, International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, and International Human Rights Day on December 10.

The United Nations (UN) says the commemoration of IDEVAW creates awareness of all forms of violence against women and girls and its impact on a country’s socio-economic development. It also pays historical patronage to women and girls who have suffered at the hands of violence.

This year’s UN campaign theme, ‘Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls’, is calling on people to show how much they care about ending violence, and call on governments worldwide to share how they are investing in GBV prevention.

Over the next several days, make sure to use the #NoExcuse slogan as part of your movement, as we call for urgent investments to prevent violence against women and girls.