The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign that emphasizes the importance of combating violence against women and girls. From November 25th to December 10th, this initiative aligns closely with RET International’s mission to empower vulnerable populations. For RET, these 16 days represent an opportunity to raise awareness, foster resilience, and create tangible change through impactful activities.
This year, RET International organized activities in 6 cities across Türkiye, hosting 23 events and engaging a total of 505 participants from diverse backgrounds. Each event was designed to educate, empower, and inspire action, making this year’s campaign a memorable success.
In Samsun
November 25- 27, 2024 – Legal Rights Workshop
Two sessions provided information to 33 women participants on their legal rights under Law 6284, which addresses the protection of women against violence. Discussions included reporting mechanisms and available support services.
November 25, 2024 – Orange Keychain Workshop
On November 25, Participants created orange keychains as a symbol of solidarity against gender-based violence. This hands-on activity helped 19 attendees connect with the campaign’s message in a meaningful and personal way.
December 5, 2024 – Mothers and Daughters
A creative storytelling session where 16 mothers and daughters collaborated to write stories of “Strong Female Figures.” This workshop aimed to highlight the importance of empowerment within families.
December 5, 2024 – Paint for No Violence
Sixteen participants painted messages of hope and equality, using art as a medium to advocate for a world without violence.
In Kayseri
November 29, 2024 – Women Supporting Women
Sixteen participants brainstormed and created impactful slogans to promote solidarity among women, fostering a sense of collective empowerment.
November 30 and December 1, 2024 – Strong Women Sessions
Focused on building psychological resilience and self-esteem, these two sessions engaged 47 women. Activities included self-reflection exercises and techniques for stress management.
December 4, 2024 – Raise Your Voice Against Violence
This workshop provided 18 participants with detailed information on protection mechanisms under Law 6284, emphasizing how to access support when faced with violence.
December 7, 2024 – Women’s Portrait Workshop
Thirty-one university students attended a seminar on gender equality and followed it up with a creative activity where they designed tote bags featuring portraits of inspiring women.
In Aksaray
November 27, 2024 – Women’s Rights and Legal Processes
A session led by a lawyer provided woman participants with insights into their rights, legal procedures, and how to navigate the justice system effectively.
November 28, 2024 – Support Mechanisms
Thirty-two participants at the Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services (ASHIM) in Aksaray were informed by RET’s experienced social worker about available resources for victims of violence and how to access them.
November 28, 2024 -Handprint for Unity
This symbolic activity involved 25 participants creating a visual representation of unity against violence by imprinting their handprints on a shared canvas.
December 5, 2024 – Privacy Education for Children
Seven children attended a tailored session on personal boundaries and the importance of privacy, helping them understand their rights in a safe and engaging way.
November 25 – December 10, 2024 – Support Mechanism Presentations
Informative presentations reached an additional 87 women throughout the campaign, ensuring broader awareness of legal rights and available support services.
In Mardin
November 25, 2024 – Discussion on GBV
Twenty-two participants, including refugees and host community members, gathered to discuss gender-based violence, share personal insights, and learn strategies for fostering safer communities.
In Şanlıurfa
November 25 2024 – Art Against Violence
Sixteen participants attended a workshop to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. After an informative session highlighting the day’s significance, participants created drawings and posters, adding meaningful messages to their artwork to express their thoughts on combating gender-based violence.
In Çorum
The activities conducted in Çorum as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign were organized by LEAP, RET International’s implementing partner in Türkiye.
November 25 and December 4, 2024 – Zero Tolerance to Violence
This activity provided information on how to recognize violence and the coping mechanisms for it. Eight participants used orange scarves as a symbol of the campaign, sparking discussions about the importance of standing against violence.
December 3, 2024 – Legal Rights Counseling
Providing legal rights counseling, this session engaged 8 Afghan women, equipping them with practical knowledge to understand and utilize protections against gender-based violence.
December 6, 2024 – Responding to GBV
Collaborating with the Violence Prevention and Monitoring Center (ŞÖNİM), this session reached 28 participants, providing practical tools to recognize and respond to gender-based violence.
Conclusion
Through these diverse and impactful activities, RET International reached more than 500 participants across Türkiye, raising awareness about gender-based violence and empowering individuals to become advocates for change aiming to foster resilience, promote equality, and create safer communities.
The 16 Days of Activism may have concluded, but the work continues. Together, we can build a future free from violence, where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.