The end of November marks, internationally, a period dedicated to raising awareness on preventing gender-based violence. This year again, the National Institute of Justice joins the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign. As a sign of solidarity, NIJ trainees decorated the institution’s courtyard trees with orange ribbons – a symbolic gesture reminding us of the importance of empathy, respect, responsibility, and support for those affected by violence.
Launched annually on 25 November, the campaign focuses this year on digital violence, a form of abuse increasingly present online. Globally, data shows that 85% of women have witnessed or experienced such situations. Under the slogan #NOEXCUSE for digital violence, the initiative promotes the creation of a safe and respectful space both online and offline.
The National Institute of Justice’s involvement is also reflected through the participation of the institution’s leadership in the national march organized in Chișinău, Bălți, and Cahul, alongside representatives of public authorities, international organizations, civil society, and citizens. Additionally, several awareness-raising activities will be carried out throughout the campaign to increase understanding of digital violence and its consequences.
To strengthen professional competencies, beneficiaries of the Institute have access to two electronic courses on the Council of Europe’s HELP platform: “Women’s Access to Justice” and “Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence”. The campaign will conclude with a simulated criminal trial, during which NIJ trainees, together with students from the Moldova State University, the “Ștefan cel Mare” Police Academy, and the Academy of Music, Theatre and Fine Arts, will apply the knowledge gained in handling cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Initiated in 1991 by the Women’s Global Leadership Institute, the “16 Days of Activism” campaign remains a call to action for preventing violence against women and promoting gender equality. The National Institute of Justice continues to support this cause through symbolic gestures, education, and professional training.
