Every year, from November 25—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women—until December 10—Human Rights Day—the global campaign “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” is held worldwide.

Within the framework of this initiative, the United Nations has designated this year's campaign to be organized under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls.”

Uzbekistan traditionally supports this global initiative, organising nationwide events and dialogues to ensure broad public participation.

On 24 November 2025, under the leadership of the national commission on women’s role in society, gender equality, and family issues, and in cooperation with UN agencies, the campaign was officially launched in Uzbekistan.

Opening the event, Senate Chairperson Tanzila Narbayeva highlighted ongoing efforts to protect women and girls from all forms of violence, including digital threats. She stressed that combating violence is a continuous process. According to her, some harmful stereotypes may be interpreted as traditions, but eliminating such views — which violate human rights — remains essential. “No stereotype can justify violence,” she said.

The event was attended by representatives of ministries and agencies, law enforcement bodies, civil society institutions, international experts, and staff from UN agencies in Uzbekistan.

Additionally, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, Sabine Machl, emphasized that reforms such as criminalizing domestic violence and strengthening protection services in the country create an important foundation for combating digital violence, and noted the need to improve laws and services as digitalization increases.

Head of the UN Women Central Asia Coordination Office, Ceren Güven Güres, stated that despite rapid global digitalisation, many cases of online and technology-facilitated violence remain hidden. She noted that although 117 countries are taking measures against digital violence by 2025, responses to this transnational threat remain fragmented and insufficiently coordinated.

Participants stressed the need to strengthen coordinated actions to make digital spaces safe, healthy, and empowering for all women and girls. They also presented proposals and initiatives aimed at combating digital violence.

From November 25 to December 10, various events, dialogue platforms, training seminars, and awareness campaigns will be held across all regions of the country under the theme “Unite to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Photo: Yunus Boriyev / “Xalq so‘zi”