25 NOVEMBER 2025
The African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) joins the global community in marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This year’s commemoration holds special significance as it marks the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and coincides with the 20th anniversary of the entry into force of the Maputo Protocol, a landmark instrument that continues to shape the advancement of women’s rights across Africa.
Violence against women remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations on the continent, manifesting in physical, sexual, psychological, economic, and emerging digital forms. Despite the existence of strong regional and international commitments, including the Maputo Protocol and CEDAW, many women and girls still face barriers in accessing justice, survivor-centred services, and effective protection. Harmful cultural norms, weak enforcement mechanisms, and unequal power dynamics continue to fuel these violations, especially against marginalised groups such as rural women, women with disabilities, migrants, young girls, and women human rights defenders.
The ACDHRS reaffirms that violence against women is not only a grave human rights concern but also a significant obstacle to development, peace, and democratic governance. It undermines community resilience, weakens institutions, and deepens inequality. We therefore call on governments, regional bodies, civil society, and development partners to strengthen legal protections, invest in comprehensive services for survivors, challenge discriminatory norms, and create safe environments for women and girls to thrive. It is equally important to safeguard the work of women human rights defenders and journalists who, despite facing heightened risks, continue to advocate for justice and accountability.
As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence begin, the ACDHRS reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting the rights of women and girls. We will continue to champion advocacy, build partnerships, amplify survivor voices, and support initiatives that contribute to long-term, systemic change.
Ending violence against women is a moral, legal, and societal imperative. On this day, we renew our call for solidarity, accountability, and sustained action to ensure that every woman and girl in Africa can live free from violence and realise her full potential.
Issued by the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS)
Banjul, The Gambia
25 November 2025
