Every second woman over the age of 15 in Bosnia and Herzegovina has experienced some form of violence, according to a survey by the Agency for Gender Equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the OSCE. In the first seven months of 2020, the number of admissions to safe houses increased by 50%, and the number of calls to SOS lines by 47%.
These data clearly show that the fight against violence against women and girls is far from over, and that society as a whole, without exception, must make its contribution to this fight. Many cases of violence go unreported – girls and women do not report violence for various cultural reasons, fear, economic dependence and stigma.
By the decision of the UN Secretary General, every 25th of the month is marked as the Orange Day – the day of the fight against violence against women and girls. The day dedicated to the fight against gender-based violence raises awareness of the importance of preventing violence, but also clearly states that we must all get involved in violence prevention through education and information of children and youth, and prevent and adequately report cases of violence.
In January, the Institute for Youth Development KULT invites you to join the initiative I #WearOrange for… marking the Orange Day, to send a clear message of support and encouragement to all women and girls victims of violence, and emphasize the importance of solving this problem.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE INITIATIVE?
For a start, you can support victims of violence by wearing an orange garment or fashion accessory (scarf, hat, jewelry, etc.) on January 24 or 25, taking photos in your usual work environment, and then sharing the photos on your website or social media with the title I #WearOrange for…
Every other woman over the age of 15 has experienced some form of psychological, economic or physical abuse.
Less than 20% of women in Bosnia and Herzegovina dare to seek any help. Stand by them and tell them they are not alone!
And don’t forget – such initiatives can encourage the victim to get out of violence and change her life.
You can register your participation at the following link: https://s.mladi.org/JaNosimNarandzasto. Detailed instructions as well as accompanying promotional material will be delivered to all participants by e-mail after their confirmation of participation.
HOW TO REPORT VIOLENCE?
If you are a victim of any form of violence or you know someone who is, and you are afraid for yourself or the safety of your loved ones – do not worry, you can report violence anonymously:
- To police by calling 122
- By calling the free SOS telephones 1265 (FBiH) and 1264 (RS)
- In person at the nearest police station, the Center for Social Work or a non-governmental organization that offers assistance, legal and psychosocial support and shelter to women victims of violence.
