16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
1 in 3 women globally experience physical and/or sexual violence at least once in their life.
These aren’t just statistics—behind every number is a real life, a woman who wakes up each day fearing that the violence she’s already endured might find her again. Over half of them live with this fear, and yet, the justice they so desperately need feels unreachable.
IJM studied the rates of sexual violence across four cities in Bolivia. Of 321 reported cases of sexual violence, only 13 resulted in a conviction—after years of waiting. The gap between the hope for justice and the painful reality is staggering. The majority of women—81%—and nearly all adolescents—92%—remain silent, not because they want to, but because a system designed to protect them has instead failed them.
When safety and dignity are at risk, justice isn’t just a process—it’s a lifeline. It must be swift, compassionate, and trauma-informed. And it cannot wait.
As we begin the 16 Days of Advocacy Against Gender-Based Violence, we acknowledge that while progress has been made, violence against women remains pervasive. We call on you to rise, pray, report, advocate and give. Lives are at stake, and there’s no time to lose.
Download our Reflection and Advocacy Guide to participate in this global movement. As you read these stories, may your heart be opened and full of compassion. By the end of this journey, you’ll know what next step you’re called to take. Together, we will stand in solidarity and work towards a future free from violence.