What is the 16 Days of Activism?
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign initiated in 1991 by the Centre for Women’s Global Leadership (CWGL). It runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day). This international effort aims to raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and drive action to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV).
Why It Matters
Despite decades of advocacy, violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains a pervasive global issue. According to the OHCHR 2024 report, thousands of VAWG-related crimes are recorded daily in England and Wales, with the majority of victims still not reporting incidents due to fear, stigma, or lack of support.
In Wales specifically:
- Welsh Women’s Aid reports that levels of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and other forms of VAWG are at an all-time high.
- The WEN Wales Feminist Scorecard 2022 rated Wales Amber/Red on ending violence against women and girls (down from Amber in 2020).
- Though the Welsh Government provided emergency funding during the pandemic, there remains a critical need for sustainable investment in specialist services — particularly for women with no recourse to public funds, who received a Red rating in the Scorecard.
These findings show that while some progress has been made, much more is needed to ensure safety, justice, and support for all survivors.
Why Orange?
Orange is the colour of hope and solidarity — a symbol of a brighter future without violence. During the 16 Days (and on the 25th of each month), wearing orange is a visible and powerful act of commitment to ending GBV.
From lighting up landmarks to bright clothing, the colour sparks conversations, draws attention, and demands action.
Spotlight on Local Impact: SI Wales South’s Initiatives
Soroptimist International Wales South (SI Wales South) has been at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights and addressing issues related to domestic abuse:
- Special Domestic Abuse Courts (SDAC) Project: Between February and September 2024, SI Wales South conducted an observational study of four Special Domestic Abuse Courts in South Wales—Cardiff, Llanelli, Newport, and Swansea. The project aimed to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of these courts in handling domestic abuse cases. The findings were compiled into a report titled “Room for Improvement: A Review of SDACs in South Wales”, which highlighted areas needing enhancement and provided recommendations for stakeholders. This report has been shared with key individuals, agencies, politicians, and even received acknowledgment from Queen Camilla, who has a special interest in domestic abuse issues.
- Ongoing Community Engagement: Clubs across SI Wales South have been proactive in:
- Hosting Orange Cafés and organizing walks in orange to raise awareness on the 25th of each month.
- Collaborating with local schools, councils, and women’s organizations to deliver educational workshops on GBV.
- Distributing “Soroptimists Say NO to Violence Against Women” badges to the public.
- Supporting survivors through fundraising for local refuges and advocating for policy changes.
How You Can Get Involved
- Participate in the 16 Days of Activism
- Host awareness events or creative displays.
- Share survivor stories (with consent).
- Educate your community on the signs and systems of abuse.
- Encourage local leaders to commit to long-term funding and reform.
- Take Action on the 25th of Each Month – “Orange the World”
- Wear something orange to raise awareness.
- Host an Orange Café: a safe space for open dialogue, community learning, and reflection.
- Organize local campaigns and displays.
- Share messages online to amplify the cause.
Together, We Can End Violence Against Women and Girls
This isn’t just a campaign — it’s a movement. Ending VAWG requires consistent action, year-round support, and systemic change. The 16 Days of Activism and Orange the World are opportunities for all of us to speak out, stand up, and build a safer world.