Minister for Social and Urban Transformation, Rawdon Turner
Antigua and Barbuda officially joined the global observance of the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence on November 25th, which also marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
The Minister for Social and Urban Transformation, Rawdon Turner, said the campaign remains a critical platform for government, civil society, the private sector and citizens to “advocate, learn, share experiences, and engage in meaningful action” aimed at ending violence against women and girls.
This year’s theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” highlights growing concerns around technology-enabled abuse amid the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and social media.
Minister Turner noted that digital tools have also helped drive positive change, pointing to global movements like #MeToo, which increased accountability and visibility around gender-based violence.
The Directorate of Gender Affairs will lead national activities over the 16-day period, including:
Orange Day, encouraging the public to wear orange in solidarity with survivors
A media day focused on public awareness
A Support and Referral Centre open house for students, police and private-sector stakeholders
A high-level press conference on the national landscape of gender-based violence
Youth parliament debate, church service, poster competition and brochure distribution
A panel discussion on digital gender-based violence at Tradewinds Hotel
A dramatic theatre presentation in partnership with Honey-Bee Theatre at the Multi-Purpose Centre
Minister Turner urged the public to take an active stand.
“I urge all citizens to be fearless advocates, to support survivors, and to play our part in ensuring Antigua and Barbuda remains a regional leader in gender-based violence response,” he said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing gender equality through “policies, programs and legislation” as the campaign continues through December 10th.
This is an important reminder that violence isn’t only physical anymore. Digital abuse is real, and it’s affecting women and girls every day.
The partnership with young people through the youth parliament is really encouraging. The next generation needs to be part of the solution.
Love that young people are being included. Change starts with educating the next generation.
Awareness is good, but what about more safe housing and stronger enforcement for victims?
Schools need this information. Prevention starts with knowledge, not punishment after the fact.
We keep observing the days of activism but does anything really come out of this?
Every year its the same thing and women still getting blows at home
These events are important, but we need resultsnot just 16 days of activity and silence after.
Hope this isn’t just a photo-op. Survivors need long-term support, not temporary campaigns