Every year, UNFPA and partners observe 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, a global observance led by the UN Women Secretariat, bringing together the UN family, governments and civil society to renew their collective pledge to address the scourge of violence against women and girls.

On average 1 out of 3 women globally will experience some form of violence during her lifetime, including physical, sexual and/or emotional violence. The likelihood of violence against women and girls increases as well during humanitarian emergencies, including natural disasters and conflict.  

UNFPA works with governments and other partners to advocate for policies to address the crisis, and to collect evidence and data that clearly illustrate the scope and extent of the issue.  Our kNOwVAWdata initiative, funded by Australia, helps countries gather data using highly-trained enumerators and surveyors to interview women in a safe and nurturing way.  The data when presented to governments and civil society often help bring about policy and behaviour change.

Our humanitarian response includes a strong focus on preventing and addressing gender-based violence as well, with psychosocial counselling and medical treatment for survivors of sexual assault and other violence. 

Find out more about 16 Days at http://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/take-action/16-days-of-activism