About International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed on 25 November. Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1999, it calls for action to prevent and end violence against women and girls in every form.
The UN General Assembly designated 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The date honours the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were killed in 1960. Women's rights activists had marked the date for years before the UN recognised it.
Violence against women and girls takes many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional and online abuse. The day calls on everyone to challenge the attitudes that allow it, to believe and support survivors and to build safer homes, workplaces and public spaces.
How it is marked
The day begins the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which run until Human Rights Day on 10 December. Orange is used as a symbol of a brighter future free from violence, and buildings are sometimes lit in orange. Schools, colleges and workplaces hold talks on consent, respect and safety, and many share information on where survivors can get help. In India, women's groups and institutions use this period for awareness campaigns and workshops.
What to write
Write with care and respect, and never make light of the subject.
- I'm here whenever you want to talk, for as long as you need. You deserve to feel safe.
- To every survivor: you are believed, you are not alone, and it was never your fault.
- Wearing orange today for you and every woman in our family. I'll keep speaking up, at home and at work.
How to wish someone on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
solidarity with survivors, respect and safety for every woman, and a commitment to speak up
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is this day observed on 25 November?
It honours the Mirabal sisters, three activists from the Dominican Republic who were killed on 25 November 1960. Women's rights groups marked the date for years before the UN General Assembly formally designated it in 1999.
What colour is associated with the day?
Orange is the colour the UN uses to represent a brighter future free from violence against women and girls. People wear orange and buildings are lit in orange during the 16 Days of Activism.
What are the 16 Days of Activism?
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a yearly campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December, Human Rights Day, linking violence against women to human rights. Anyone in immediate danger should contact local emergency services.
When is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in 2026?
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2026 falls on Wednesday, 25 November 2026.
What is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women?
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed on 25 November. Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1999, it calls for action to prevent and end violence against women and girls in every form.
Is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women?
Focus on solidarity with survivors, respect and safety for every woman, and a commitment to speak up. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .