UNiTE by 2030: A Global Call to End Violence Against Women and Girls"

(GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

In 2008, the United Nations Secretary-General introduced the UNiTE by 2030 campaign to End Violence against Women, a landmark initiative aimed at addressing one of the most pervasive human rights violations globally.

The campaign’s signature color, orange, was chosen for its vibrant and optimistic qualities, symbolizing hope for a future where women and girls live free from violence and discrimination.

UNiTE is closely tied to the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a civil society-led campaign that runs annually from November 25, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day.

Each year, UNiTE selects a specific theme to focus global attention on critical issues related to gender-based violence, emphasizing the urgency of collective action.

During this period, people across the world are called upon to wear orange as a show of solidarity and commitment to ending violence against women and girls. The campaign encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to take action by addressing violence in various contexts, including homes, schools, workplaces, public spaces, and during times of peace and conflict. Efforts are directed toward creating safe environments and ensuring that survivors receive justice, support, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.

The "Orange the World" initiative, a key feature of the campaign, serves as a rallying point for global activism. It provides resources, such as the UNiTE toolkit, to empower individuals and organizations to participate in raising awareness and driving change. Digital activists are encouraged to leverage social media and other online platforms to amplify the campaign’s message and foster widespread engagement.

Organizations, non-profits, and individuals can also utilize the Orange the World campaign logo for promotional activities designed to increase awareness of gender-based violence. By completing an agreement form, they gain access to high-resolution materials, such as PNG and EPS files, to use in their outreach efforts, provided they adhere to the logo’s terms and conditions.

Through these collective actions, the UNiTE campaign envisions a world where the rights and dignity of women and girls are upheld, ensuring a future where they are free from violence and fear.

This global effort invites everyone to stand together, advocate for change, and build a more just and equitable society.