Nari Unnayan Shakti launches 16-Day campaign to promote actions against gender-based violence
The campaign aims to raise awareness and strengthen collective action to prevent all forms of violence against women
Urging urgent action to combat violence against women, Nari Unnayan Shakti (NUS) inaugurated the global campaign "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" today (25 November) with a participatory event at the NUS training centre in Banasree.
The campaign, observed from 25 November to 10 December, aims to raise awareness and strengthen collective action to prevent all forms of violence against women.
This year's inauguration was organised in collaboration with Bangladesh Shishu Adhikar Forum (BSAF), Forum for Culture and Human Development (FCHD), and Young Women for Development Rights & Climate (YWDRC).
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Afroja Parvin, executive director of NUS, delivered the keynote speech, calling for coordinated efforts from communities, government agencies, and civil society to eliminate violence against women and girls.
"Violence against women is not only a women's issue; it is a social problem that requires immediate and consistent action. Given the current context, it is essential for the Government of Bangladesh to double the national budget allocated for preventing violence against women," she said.
Shahida Wahab, chairperson of FCHD, stressed the importance of cultural transformation, highlighting awareness, education, and women's empowerment as the three key pillars necessary to build a society free from discrimination and violence.
Sultan Mohammad Razzak of BSAF highlighted the link between women's rights and the protection of adolescents and children, noting that violence against adolescent girls has long-term negative effects on families and society.
Selina Khatun of YWDRC spoke on the vulnerabilities faced by young women amid social and climate-related crises, calling for increased youth engagement and climate-sensitive policies to prevent gender-based violence.
The program concluded with participants pledging collective action toward a violence-free society, followed by a discussion session with representatives from various sectors.
Over the next 16 days, NUS and its partner organisations will conduct awareness activities and community outreach programs in Khilgaon and surrounding areas as part of the campaign.
