16 Days of Activism

Stand Up Against GBV: 16 Days of Activism Every year from 25 November to 10 December, South Africa joins the world in the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. This is more than just a campaign—it’s a collective call to action to end gender-based violence (GBV) and create safer communities. The theme this year focuses on collaboration, innovation, and empowerment, urging us all to play a role in this vital cause. Why Does It Matter? In South Africa, GBV is not just a statistic; it’s a crisis. With 35.5% of women over 18 having faced physical or sexual violence, and over 57% experiencing controlling behaviour from partners, the numbers paint a grim picture. Globally, GBV affects women across all cultures and socioeconomic classes, underscoring the need for action that goes beyond borders. Yet GBV isn’t just a “women’s issue.” It affects families, workplaces, and communities, undermining national development and tearing apart the fabric of society. Survivors often face lifelong emotional, psychological, and financial harm. This epidemic demands more than awareness—it calls for action. What Is 16 Days of Activism? Launched in 1991 by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute, this campaign has grown into a global movement supported by the United Nations. It begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) and ends on Human Rights Day (10 December), symbolising the intrinsic connection between fighting GBV and upholding human rights. This year in South Africa, the campaign highlights the role of technology in combating GBV, emphasising how innovation can empower survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. However, technology also presents challenges, like online harassment, making digital safety an integral part of GBV prevention. The Role of Counselling Raising awareness is critical, but supporting survivors is equally essential. Counselling offers a lifeline to those navigating the aftermath of GBV, helping them heal, rebuild, and thrive. Here’s how it makes a difference: Emotional Support: Survivors often carry feelings of shame and blame. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgmental space to process these emotions. Trauma Recovery: Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) address trauma symptoms and help survivors regain control. Breaking the Cycle: Counselling tackles harmful patterns, fostering healthier relationships and ending generational cycles of abuse. Building Resilience: Survivors rediscover their strengths and set goals for a brighter future. At organisations like Mustard Seed Tree, counselling is offered free or at an affordable cost to ensure help is accessible to all. How Can You Help? Ending GBV is a collective effort. Here are practical ways to contribute: Educate Yourself: Learn about GBV’s root causes and signs. Recognise that it can manifest as physical, emotional, or financial abuse. Support Survivors: Provide a listening ear, help them access professional services, and respect their choices without judgment. Challenge Harmful Norms: Speak up against toxic masculinity and gender stereotypes. Promote positive role models and foster safe spaces. Volunteer Your Time: Join nonprofits like Mustard Seed Tree, offer your professional skills, or support shelters with resources. Advocate for Change: Push for stronger policies, increased resources for survivors, and systemic accountability through activism. Let’s Make a Change The 16 Days of Activism is a chance to reflect on the devastating impact of GBV, amplify the voices of survivors, and commit to creating a world where violence is no longer tolerated. For South Africans, this fight is personal and urgent. Every conversation, action, and bit of support matters. Let’s not let these 16 days pass us by. Together, we can break the cycle of violence, empower survivors, and ensure that healing and justice are within everyone’s reach. If you or someone you know needs help, contact Mustard Seed Tree for compassionate counselling services.