16 Days Campaign

Activism against Gender Violence


Prayer Vigil in Carrigaline


From 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women), for 16 days until 10th December (Human Rights Day), Mothers' Union takes part in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence.

Anyone can take part in 16 Days, whether through raising awareness on social media, running an event or contacting political representatives

To show our support and solidarity with those who suffer gender violence
we will have a Prayer Vigil as part of our Getaway Weekend at the end of November

SOMETHING TO REFLECT ON


Lord of all, help us to be silent for a moment so we can hear the cries of girls and women
some loud, many muffled, enduring violence in every area of our global community.

Help us to take the time to reflect on the fact
that the majority of human rights violations across your world are acts of violence toward women.

The roots of such hatred are deep and tangled, and justice is long overdue
All humans, women and men, are made in your image and likeness, and have immeasurable dignity.

Help us, for a moment, be silent and still so we can recognise You
in the faces of every girl and every woman.

Jane Deren https://educationforjustice.org/resources

Why do we take part?

Throughout the world women and girls are subject to many different forms of violence including physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse. Violence affects women and girls from all backgrounds and happens across all stages of life; and is perpetrated by partners and family members as well as strangers.


  • One in three women globally will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime (World Health Organisation).
  • In 2012, one in two woman killed in a homicide was killed by a partner, former partner, or family member. One in 20 men was killed by a partner, former partner, or family member in this same year (UN Women).
  • 4.5 million people worldwide are victims of forced sexual exploitation. 98% of these are women (UN Women).

    • Each year, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence unites individuals and organisations to raise awareness of, and call for an end to, all forms of violence against women and girls.

    Mothers' Union believes in particular that prevention needs to focus on teaching children and adults about loving and respectful relationships; that there are laws against all forms of violence and abuse and the means to enforce them; that those experiencing violence are supported, and that perpetrators are brought to justice and rehabilitated.

    Upcoming events

    Check out our upcoming events by clicking on the below link