With the key message “LOOK at the last few years,” the TPO Foundation and the University Gender Resource Center, within the UNIGEM project and with the support of the British Embassy, are marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women campaign. This year, with the special message “Support Victims and Survivors,” the aim is to encourage and support those whose voices have been silenced, and who are unheard in the cacophony of administrative, political, and cultural barriers.

At the press conference held on November 26, 2024, at the University Gender Resource Center, the key activities of this year’s campaign were presented.

The press conference was moderated by Medina Mujić and the key activities were presented by TPO members.

At the press conference, this year’s campaign focus was presented, along with a call for joint action and support. Ivana Kulić emphasized the importance of providing assistance to victims of violence, particularly highlighting the significance of support for the Women’s House in Gradačac – a symbol of safety, recovery, and a new opportunity for women who have suffered from violence.

Jasna Kovačević, on behalf of the University of Sarajevo, presented part of the activities carried out within the UNIGEM (Universities and Gender Mainstreaming) project at the University of Sarajevo. In addition to the research conducted in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, over 300 activities were held with teaching and administrative staff from 19 universities, as well as with the student population. Seven syllabi, along with accompanying lectures and materials for integration into curricula, were prepared. Winter and summer schools were organized, along with numerous other activities aimed at raising awareness about gender equality and gender-based violence.

Nejra Džananović from the TPO Foundation highlighted the significance of educating young people through cooperation with high schools. This collaboration aims to strengthen educational institutions in recognizing and responding to violence, promoting equality and non-violence as fundamental societal values.

The conference emphasized that gender-based violence is a global issue that requires an urgent and systemic response. According to global research, one in three women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. This is a societal challenge that demands joint action from institutions, the media, and civil society.

A special focus was placed on the role of the media, which, through sensitive and responsible reporting, can significantly contribute to breaking the stigma and prejudice against victims and survivors. “Your power to shape public opinion is immense. Let us use it to support those who have survived violence and create a society where violence has no place,” was the message directed at the attending journalists.

The “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign began in 1991 and today brings together organizations and institutions from over 180 countries with the goal of raising awareness and encouraging concrete changes in the fight against gender-based violence.