multiple coloured silhouettes of women's faces next to the title 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and the dates 25 November to 10 December.

16 Days of Activism and White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day takes place on 25 November. It is a global awareness day where men and boys pledge to end violence against women and girls. The initiative launches alongside the annual #16DaysOfAction campaign, which runs to 10 December on Human Rights Day.

For local support with domestic abuse, you can read Soroptimist International's guide.

Brightly coloured illustration of a group of women.

"I speak up by not laughing at sexist 'jokes' or 'banter'."

Initiated in 1991, the ‘16 Days’ campaign is the longest-running and most widely-recognised initiative for women’s rights. Linking violence against women and human rights, it calls for the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence. Over 6,000 organisations from approximately 187 countries participate each year, reaching circa 300 million people.

silhouettes of women standing, one with a hand raised, with the white ribbon represented at the bottom of the image

"I speak up by backing up others who call something out."

The theme for 2026's campaign will be decided later in the year. In previous years we have focused on: 

  • awareness and prevention of digital violence against women and girls
  • education for men and boys on their role in ending violence towards women
Illustration of a diverse group celebrating and protesting on behalf of women

"I speak up by removing myself from group chats where sexist comments are made."

Each year BCP Council and the Safer BCP Partnership support a number of events for the campaign across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. These events demonstrate our pledge to the elimination of violence towards women and girls. We will share plans for 2026 events later in the year.

A hand logo with a purple ribbon next to the title 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

BCP Council has been White Ribbon Accredited since 2024. White Ribbon Accreditation is a commitment made by workplaces to work towards transformational culture change in their staff culture, systems and communities. We’ve now joined hundreds of organisations across England and Wales in making a commitment to make work a safe place for everyone.

White Ribbon, UN Women and For All Women and Girls logos.