Each year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This global campaign seeks to raise awareness and galvanize action to end violence against women and girls—a pervasive issue that undermines the fundamental rights and well-being of millions worldwide. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s designation of November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
According to UN Women, violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violation in the world. Globally, an estimated 736 million women2—nearly one in three—have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their lives (UN Women).
Gender-based violence (GBV) disproportionately affects women and girls, leaving lasting physical, psychological, and economic scars. Beyond its devastating impact on individuals, GBV perpetuates cycles of inequality and impedes broader societal progress. From domestic violence and trafficking to workplace harassment and conflict-related sexual violence, GBV leaves lasting scars on individuals and societies, perpetuating cycles of inequality and oppression. Furthermore, crises including economic crises, COVID-19, conflicts, and climate change are further exacerbating VAWG with disproportionate impacts on women that experience multiple, intersecting forms of discrimination (UN Women).
AIT’S ACADEMIC COMMITMENT TO ADDRESSING GBV
The Gender and Development Studies program at AIT has long championed the cause of combating GBV through its academic, research, and institutional initiatives. The academic program has taken significant strides to address the global crisis of GBV by integrating it into its academic framework. Courses on themes such as human rights, politics, culture, power, migration, displacement, enterprises, organizations, technology, and digital cultures explore the structural roots of gender-based violence, its diverse manifestations, and the pathways to advocacy and change equipping students with the analytical tools to address GBV at systemic levels.
In sharing their experiences at studying in the GDS program Syifa Salsabila, from Indonesia mentioned “I have gained invaluable insights from my professors and lectures on the many ways gender issues shape our daily lives, including how violence takes on different forms. I’ve learned that violence isn’t limited to specific gender boundaries—it can occur in same-sex relationships as well as between individuals of the opposite sex. This has deepened my understanding of the need for everyone to come together to prevent and reduce violence in all its forms, fostering a world rooted in love and respect for humanity.”
RESEARCH AND ADVOCACY
AIT’s GenderLab is a pioneering forum for collaborative research and advocacy on gender equality and justice. It provides a platform for students, researchers, and external actors to contribute to the critical discourse on violence against women (VAW) and especially highlighting the issues in the regional context of Myanmar and SE Asia. The GenderLab has hosted discussions, and affiliated researchers have produced research papers on Violence Against Women in armed conflict zones and among internally displaced women. The findings of the research highlights how victims of violence in these settings face greater psychological distress due to the inadequate protection services, financial restrictions, and cultural barriers which hinder them from accessing redressal services. The forum highlights the critical role feminist movements and national and regional networks play in addressing structural violence. These initiatives underscore the significance of strong feminist advocacy for effective change, a sentiment echoed in student research on GBV in conflict and migration settings.
Many of these studies have not only enriched existing academic literature but also informed policies and advocacy efforts. By shedding light on unseen dimensions of GBV, AIT students play a vital role in broadening the scope of the conversation and driving meaningful change.
INSTITUTIONAL EFFORTS
AIT upholds a strong commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment through its robust institutional framework and policies. At the core of these efforts is a Zero Tolerance Policy towards sexual harassment and violence, ensuring accountability and support for those affected. AIT’s Student Code of Conduct and guidelines on Ethical Behavior establish clear expectations, emphasizing mutual respect and integrity across the campus community. To address grievances, AIT has implemented a comprehensive Complaints and Grievances Mechanism, which provides accessible, confidential channels for reporting incidents. The process includes rigorous investigation and disciplinary actions, with penalties imposed to deter violations and uphold justice. Through these policies, along with regular employee and student orientation activities, AIT demonstrates its dedication to creating a campus culture that actively works against all forms of gender-based violence.
To promote awareness, Zero Tolerance messaging is prominently displayed across campus, outlining complaint and redressal mechanisms. Orientation programs for employees, led by HR, and student orientation activities, in collaboration with the Student Union, emphasize non-violence, gender equality, and respectful campus interactions. Through these initiatives, AIT actively cultivates a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion, resonating with a broader audience and exemplifying how institutions can lead by example in preventing and addressing gender-based violence.
A CALL TO REFLECT AND ACT
Achieving zero tolerance towards violence against women requires collective effort and commitment across all spaces—homes, schools, workplaces, communities, public spaces, and the digital world. It means actively rejecting harmful behaviors, by-stander interventions, fostering a culture of respect, and holding individuals and institutions accountable. Organizations, companies, and communities must adopt robust policies that support survivors and uphold zero tolerance for all forms of violence. Together, we can transform these principles into lasting change.
At AIT, we believe in fostering meaningful public conversations to challenge harmful norms and raise awareness. Virtual seminars, interactive discussions, and student-led initiatives within the framework of the 16 Days of Activism amplify the message of this campaign, inspiring individuals to take action.
As Prof. Kyoko Kusakabe, Chair of the Gender and Development Studies program at AIT, emphasizes, “We are proud to note that our students and graduates are actively working to fight against gender-based violence. With increased conflict in various countries, working on gender-based violence is more important than ever.”
Join us during the 16 Days of Activism to raise your voice, take a stand, and work collectively to create a world free from violence against women. Together, let’s be the change that fosters equality, dignity, and safety for all.
