Department of Gender Affairs to Observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence from 25 November to 10 December 2024

PRESS RELEASE 

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF 

GENDER AFFAIRS  

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: The Department of Gender Affairs is proud to announce its participation in the global observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a powerful movement that unites us all in raising awareness and taking action against all forms of violence that disproportionately affects women and girls. This global unity is a testament to the shared commitment to ending gender-based violence. The campaign will run from 25 November to 10 December 2024.

The ‘16 Days of Activism’ is a global initiative that highlights the importance of ending gender-based violence, amplifies the voices of survivors, and calls for collective responsibility in addressing the root causes of violence. In alignment with this international campaign, the Department of Gender Affairs will host a series of activities. We emphasise the importance of your participation in these events, as your involvement is crucial in our collective efforts to end gender-based violence.

The 2024 observance is particularly important as it provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work still needed to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and harassment. The Department urges all members of the public to participate, engage with the activities, and take a stand against violence in all its forms. Violence against women and girls is rampant and happens in both private and public spaces. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, and those unemployed or under-employed face increased risks of sexual violence and exploitation. Therefore, we must take a bold approach together, speak up, and act against all forms of violence against women and girls.

The Department of Gender Affairs is committed to the protection, empowerment, and well-being of all individuals, particularly women and girls, from Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Today, we stand in solidarity with the rest of the world and send a strong message that gender-based violence is a crime and as such the department has adopted a zero-tolerance policy for these heinous crimes, and we want to reassure you of our unwavering stance against gender-based violence.

We remain steadfast in our dedication to fostering an environment of respect, equality, and justice for all throughout these Turks and Caicos Islands.