(Not just) 25th November - International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women

Every woman, including female international students, deserves the right to feel secure walking home in the evening without fear. On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, observed on November 25th, ESN Italy spearheaded a comprehensive initiative to address this critical issue. Our primary focus was to create awareness, educate the public, and mobilize support against gender-based violence in Italy.

The cornerstone of our efforts was a targeted social media campaign designed to disseminate vital information about incidents of violence and femicides in Italy. We conducted thorough research and presented data through a compelling blog post, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by women. Beyond the digital realm, we actively engaged in nationwide demonstrations, rallying under the impactful slogans "Not One Less" and "Se domain tocca a me, voglio essere l'ultima." International students were specifically invited to stand with us in a unified front against gender-based violence.

The resonance of our campaign was heightened by media coverage, particularly highlighting the tragic story of Giulia Cecchettin, a young woman murdered by her ex-boyfriend during that period. Our overarching goal was not only to raise awareness but also to educate the public, especially young and international students, about the prevalence and various forms of gender-based violence. By fostering activism and solidarity, we aimed to create a safe platform for international students to actively participate in social justice causes, building a supportive community that unequivocally opposes gender-based violence.

This multifaceted initiative comprised interconnected activities, from the impactful social media campaign and blog article to active participation in nationwide demonstrations. Our target groups included the general public, with a specific emphasis on young people and international students, aiming to engage diverse communities and amplify awareness about gender-based violence.

Despite not receiving any funds and not directly collaborating with other NGOs, some local sections, such as "Non una di meno," contributed to the cause. The initiative successfully sparked conversations, both locally and internationally, raising awareness about the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. Real-life stories and data sharing encouraged reflection and empathy among our target audience.

The participation of international students in the demonstrations was particularly influential, fostering a sense of solidarity and empowerment to advocate for gender equality and social justice. While the initiative achieved notable success in raising public awareness and mobilizing support, we acknowledge the ongoing challenge of combating gender-based violence. We remain steadfast in our commitment to continuous advocacy and action in this crucial area, recognizing the sustained effort required to bring about lasting change.