Starting November 25, the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development for the Federal Government of Somalia will observe the 16Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign committed to challenging violence against women and girls. This campaign is held annually from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. Launched in 1991 by the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute, the campaign is a vital platform for raising awareness and mobilizing action against gender-based violence. The 2024 global theme, “Unite, Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls,” calls upon communities and the Somali government to collaborate as partners in hosting events that engage local, national, regional, and global women’s movements, survivor advocates, and women human rights defenders. The Ministry will organizeinitiatives designed to facilitate meaningful dialogue among activists, policymakers, and the CSOs, thereby promoting collaborationand fostering shared. Federal Government Commitment The primary objective of the 2024 campaign is to secure a strong commitment from the Federal Government of Somalia, recognizing that violence against women and girls, whether perpetrated by public or private actors, constitutes a violation of human rights. The campaign will emphasize the importance of engaging youth, women, religious leaders, and traditional elders, as well as senior officials from the federal government, in making local and national institutions more inclusive. This inclusivity is paramount for enhancing their capacity and relevance in achieving action against gender-based violence. Legal Enactment The 16 Days Campaign is a key component of the Women’s Aid Strategy. The Ministry of Family and Human Rights willstrengthen government efforts to endorse and enact the national rape offense and indecency bill, which was approved by the cabinet ministers in December 2023. This bill aims to criminalize all forms of gender-based violence and provide survivors with legal aid and psychosocial counseling. Securing parliamentary approval for this bill is crucial for advancing the rights of women and girls. Media Advocacy The Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development will implement during the commemoration of 16 days of activism a robust media advocacy program to promote human rights and combat violence. This program will encourage media outlets to raise nationalawareness about the critical issue of violence against women and effective strategies for its prevention. By leveraging various media platforms, the Ministry aims to foster a culture of accountability and support for survivors, ensuring their voices are heard. Public Awareness The Ministry will facilitate a comprehensive campaign designed to increase awareness and knowledge within communitieslocally and across Somalia. This initiative will involve collaboration with Federal Member State gender ministries to shift societal attitudes toward violence against women. The campaign will provide a platform for participation from all sectors of civil society and women’s networks, encouraging collaboration among government entities and fostering a collective response to gender-based violence. Activities Overview A detailed calendar of activities will be organized throughout the 16 Days of Activism in Somalia, includingthe dissemination of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials during various events. These activities will be promoted across multiple media platforms, including social media, to share the Ministry’s initiatives and rally support against gender-based violence. The Ministry will facilitate the event activities in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), relevant government ministries, and women’s networks, with invitations extended to all stakeholders. Together, we will work to create a unified front against gender-based violence and promote a safe environment for women and girls in Somalia.