Every year, from 25 November to 10 December, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence campaign brings together initiatives to raise awareness and take action against this scourge. This year, the theme “Responding and rebuilding after violence” highlights the need for individual support for victims and collective action to build a violence-free society.

An alarming reality

Every three weeks, a woman in Switzerland is beaten to death by her partner or an acquaintance. In 2023, victim support centres recorded more than 49,000 consultations. Yet these figures reflect only part of the problem: many victims remain in the shadows, held back by fear of stigmatisation or lack of adequate support.

A campaign for all audiences

As part of this campaign, VIOLENCE QUE FAIRE will focus on the specific needs of migrant and allophone populations in French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino. Our campaign on social networks will provide concrete answers to crucial questions such as:

• How do you deal with domestic violence when you have no legal status or your residence permit depends on your partner?
• What recourse do LGBTQIA+ people have when faced with domestic violence?
• Where can I find support for undocumented family members in danger?

Our aim is to give everyone access to reliable information and appropriate support, whatever their status or background.

Let’s commit to sustainable solutions

As well as raising awareness, the 16 Days campaign is a reminder of the urgent need to step up measures against gender-based violence:

• Increase the number of places in residential homes.
• Providing specialist training for professionals.
• Fully implement the Istanbul Convention to better protect victims.

VIOLENCE QUE FAIRE joins this call for a society where everyone can live without fear.

Resources for action and information

On our violencequefaire.ch/en platform, we propose:

• A professional, anonymous and free online advice service, with a response time of 3 working days.
• Practical information to help you break the silence and find solutions tailored to each situation.

To find out about all the events and initiatives taking place as part of the 16 Days of Activism, visit 16jours.ch.