Each year from November 25 to December 10, the world marks the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” not only as a protest against abuse, but as a movement for equality, justice and human rights. The campaign encourages people to work as a team to end any kind of abuse toward women and girls.

This year in Nepal, the campaign is being observed under the national theme:“Use Technology Safely, End Gender-Based Violence.” With growing cases of digital abuse and online harassment, the slogan aims to raise awareness and promote responsible use of technology as a tool for safety rather than harm. The campaign raises a powerful question: How long will society continue to ignore the tears and trauma of survivors? Women and girls continue to feel unsafe at home, in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

According to national statistics, nearly 25% of women in Nepal have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. Alarmingly, 78.82% of cases occur within the home, and 83% of sexual violence incidents are perpetrated by known individuals. These figures highlight that violence is not an isolated event but a deep-rooted social wound.

The gender-based violence leaves long-lasting psychological, social, and economic consequences. Girls may develop fear, anxiety, low self-esteem, poor academic focus and social isolation. Women may suffer depression, trauma, limited participation in decision-making, and economic dependency. Violence scars not just the body, but the mind, identity and future of a person.

Nepal has enacted several laws and policies to protect women and children, including criminal provisions on rape and sexual violence. However, making laws alone is not enough, proper implementation is still a major challenge. So, there must be easy ways for victim-friendly reporting systems, safe shelters, psychosocial support, legal aid, and justice.

Moreover, education must go beyond academics and focus on values such as equality, consent, and empathy. Open communication within families encourages victims to speak without fear. Economic empowerment through small income opportunities and savings groups can be vital for women’s independence. Schools should include gender equality and violence prevention in their curriculum. Life-skills and self-defense training for adolescent girls are also important to help them build confidence, resilience, and self-reliance.

Community awareness programs, women’s safety meetings, and campaigns through radio or public forums play a key role in breaking silence and raising voices for change. Engaging young people in promoting positive masculinity and responsible fatherhood is crucial, as ending violence requires the participation of all, not just women.

Local security systems are required to strengthened which ensure victims can access immediate support, shelter, and helpline services along with counseling, psychosocial support, and sensitive healthcare. Media should highlight stories of resilience and success, portraying survivors as symbols of courage rather than blame. Strengthening online safety and digital education is also essential.

Economic empowerment through skills training, entrepreneurship, and safe employment, along with life-skills and self-defense training for adolescent girls, is promoted to build confidence and resilience. Long-term rehabilitation programs, community support, and cooperative initiatives aim to turn legal protections into tangible safety.

The campaign is a reminder that ending gender violence is a daily commitment, not just a 16-day effort. Each small action, from dialogue to support contributes to a safe, equitable society where women and girls can live with dignity, confidence, and justice.