On 10 December, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign concluded on Human Rights Day, with a closing ceremony at the French Residence in Vientiane Capital, bringing together key stakeholders committed to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in Laos.
Co-organized by the Embassy of France, the Embassy of Australia, UNDP, UNFPA, and the National Commission for the Advancement of Women, Mothers, and Children (NCAWMC), the event highlighted the theme “Breaking Barriers to End Gender-Based Violence and Secure Rights for All”.
The 2024 campaign theme, “UNiTE! Invest to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls!”, aligned with the global commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
The closing ceremony served as a space to reflect on achievements during the 16 Days of Activism and to renew commitments to addressing Gender-Based Violence. Attendees, including government officials, development partners, civil society representatives, and young leaders, participated in activities that fostered dialogue and inspired action, including Forum Theatre, Interactive Experiences, Educational Displays, Multimedia Presentations.
Siv Leng CHHUOR, Ambassador of France, recalled that “France is particularly committed to supporting women all over the world, and has made the fight against gender-based violence one of the five pillars of its feminist diplomacy.”
Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative highlighted that “UNFPA will continue its fruitful partnership with the government of Laos, UN agencies and development partners to address the root causes of gender-based violence through education, advocacy, and inclusive programs.”
“Through our Standards Operating Procedures, we will ensure survivors receive comprehensive support to heal and rebuild. Leaving no one behind, especially those most at risk, is not just a principle—it is our moral obligation.”
“2 in 3 survivors of gender-based violence remain silent, and only 1 in 10 seek support from health centers, women’s organizations, or the police,” said Martine Thérer, UNDP Resident Representative. ” We must create a world where women feel safe to speak up and can trust the government and the laws to protect them. Justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators are essential to protect women and stop the cycle of violence.”
“No girl should face violence or be denied the chance to thrive. Every woman and girl deserves the opportunity to grow, thrive and contribute to their country’s development,” said Megan Jones, Australia Ambassador to Laos. “The Australian Government is committed to advancing gender equality and the rights of women and girls at home, in our region and through broader international engagement”.
Phaivanh Keopaseuth, Deputy Minister of Health and vice-chairman of NCAWMC: “I urge all parties to take a united stand to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls, implement policies and laws, especially to arrest and punish perpetrators of violence, change attitudes and behaviors that reinforce violence against women and girls, create a safe environment, break all barriers, and empower women and girls to achieve their rights.”
The 16 Days of Activism campaign reflected the power of partnerships in tackling Gender-Based Violence. Through initiatives like this event, voices can be amplified, breaking down barriers, and securing a safer future for women and girls in Laos.
The closing ceremony is not an end but a call to action for all sectors to invest in prevention, provide survivor-centered responses, and continue building a society free from violence. NCAWMC, France, Australia, UNFPA, UNDP and all partners remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing gender equality and protecting the rights of women and girls.
