Monday, 25th November marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

It’s hard to believe that such a movement is still desperately needed in this day and age, but the stark reality proves otherwise.

The statistics are devastating:

• In the UK, a woman is killed by a man every three days on average. (Femicide Census)
• Globally, a woman is killed every 10 minutes. (UNwomen)
• In the UK, 97% of women and girls have been victims of sexual harassment or assault. (UNwomen)

These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives torn apart by violence, trauma, and injustice.

To address this, the first step is acknowledging that gender-based violence remains an issue at all. Unfortunately, these issues are often shrouded in silence, seen as taboo, or, worse, as a reflection on the victim. Many cling to the belief that these days are behind us—but they are not.

So, what can we do? The WI already has a running campaign for stopping violence against women, join it and get involved with us. Have the discussion with your family, raise the topic at your WI meetings ensure every member knows that each meeting is a safe space should they need it, explain to children and grandchildren exactly what a healthy and an unhealthy relationship looks like.

These conversations may feel awkward. They may make people defensive. But the choice is clear: you can either take steps toward being part of the solution, or you can perpetuate the problem by ignoring it. By acknowledging the problem, speaking out, and supporting survivors, we can begin to dismantle the systems that allow gender-based violence to persist.

Together, we can—and must—make a difference.

So please wear your white ribbon between now and 10th December. Thank you.

No More Violence against Women | National Federation of Women’s Institutes

Domestic abuse in England and Wales overview – Office for National Statistics