Today, November 25th , 2024, is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and marks day one of the 16 Days of Activism campaign calls for action against one of the world’s most persistent violations of human rights – violence against women. Each year, from 25 November to 10 December, (World Human Rights Day) people around the world unite to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women for good. This year te theme of campaign is “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.” In 2025, the global community marks the 30th anniversary review of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
“Refleksione” joined the “Orange Relay” as part of this campaign in Albania, organized for the first time – Pedal Against Violence – a bicycle tour that will cover 1140 kilometers, 16 municipalities during the 16 Days of Activism – organized by UN Agencies in Albania as a symbol of joint action against violence against women and the girls. This initiative intends to raise awareness and convey the powerful message: There is #NOJUSTIFICATION for violence against women and girls.
Violence against women continues to occur at an alarming scale in Albania as well. Speaking out against women’s rights abuses is something that “ Refleksione” does every day: from lobbying government to improve laws and services to working with communities to change discriminatory attitudes and behaviors, to respond to and prevent violence against women. It works with both women and men to raise awareness and implement violence prevention programs.
Violence against women is not inevitable; it is preventable. This message is conveyed to families, schools, communities and workplaces, it will be amplified, and our voices heard.