Blog of Joe Mason, SI Advocacy and Communications Coordinator.
Acknowledged around the world, 25 November 2023 marks the United Nation’s (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women as well as kickstarting the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
During this period, our commitment to fostering change, awareness and empowerment takes on a new and crucial dimension as we invite those who share the mission and values of Soroptimist International (SI) to reflect on and renew their commitments to the elimination of violence against women. The currently ongoing 16 Days allow for a sustained international campaign, achieving maximum impact as we collaborate globally to demand the prevention of gender-based violence.
This year, our global campaign, titled ‘Wired for Change: Tech’s Impact on Gender-Based Abuse’, delves into the complex intersection of technology and gender-based violence. Recognising the power of technology as a force for both positive and negative change, we aim to shed light on the profound impact that different forms of technology can have on the lives of women and girls around the world.
The 16 Days of Activism has served as a powerful international campaign for over 30 years, since its inauguration in 1991 by the Women’s Global Leadership Institute. Spanning from the international Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November, to Human Rights Day on 10 December, this year’s campaign is particularly significant as we consider the growing importance of technology in day-to-day life.
Our campaign for 2023 also ties in thematically with the focus of ‘Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls’, which was prioritised throughout the 67th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women held in March. Addressing the digital divide is a recurring theme nowadays in the realm of international development and one which our focus for this 16 Days is neatly connected.
#WiredForChange
Our focus this year is twofold – we aim to address the negative aspects of technology and its role in facilitating gender-based abuse, while also acknowledging its potential as a force for good in shaping a more equitable world.
Harnessing the theme of #WiredForChange, we invite Soroptimists and advocates worldwide to join us in exploring the nuanced dynamics of gender-based abuse in the digital realm. Through this campaign, we strive to spur global conversation that raises awareness, promotes digital competency and respect, and empowers individuals to stand against technology facilitated gender-based abuse.
As we progress through these 16 days of activism, we will share insights, resources and stories that underscore the need to challenge the counterproductive and negative influences of technology, whilst highlighting the potential for a world where technology is wielded as a tool for positive change, rather than as a means of abuse. By rewiring the narrative of online interactions, we can collectively shift digital conversations toward respect, equality and, importantly, the safety of every individual online.
To get involved with our campaign efforts during this 16 Days of Activism, make sure to check out our Communications Toolkit.