The topic of gender-based violence and disability is the focus of this year's "16 days against violence against women" campaign in Switzerland. Mission 21 is once again taking part in this international campaign, which raises awareness of violence against women every year from November 25 to December 10 and calls for action against violence.
Compared to other people, women and people with disabilities are more frequently affected by violence in various forms. This is particularly true for those who are dependent on the support of others or have an invisible disability.
The campaign in Switzerland is led by Friedathe feminist peace organization. As part of the campaign, Mission 21 promotes prevention and awareness-raising to reduce all forms of violence against women and people with disabilities with posts on Instagram, among other things.
Continuous efforts to combat gender-based violence
Mission 21's commitment goes beyond the 16 Days campaign: in many projects, Mission 21 continuously addresses sexualized, gender-specific and structural violence.
In Bolivia, for example, our partner organization Fundación Machaqa Amawta offers pedagogically sound prevention work against violence at various schools and raises awareness among children and young people with and without disabilities in an age-appropriate manner. Machaqa Amawta also provides psychosocial and legal support for children and young people affected by gender-based violence.
Mission 21 also works with partner churches and organizations in various African countries and in Southeast Asia to combat gender-based violence. Together, we contribute to the right to a life free from physical and psychological violence and strive for gender justice and peaceful societies.
