The 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign that begins on November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and concludes on December 10 (Human Rights Day). Launched in 1991 by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership, the campaign aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence and inspire actions to end all forms of such violence. Governments, NGOs, and individuals worldwide organize various events, including seminars, marches, and social media campaigns, focusing on preventing gender-based violence, restoring justice, and empowering survivors.
This year, as a result of the announced grant call, the following initiatives were selected:
- Apahov Ankyun (Safe Corner) NGO – “Strength Is in the Community”
This initiative supports the socio-economic integration of 18–30-year-old women displaced from Artsakh and now living in Masis. It develops communication, leadership, and career skills, creates links with local groups, and encourages their participation in community life. Participants will receive practical knowledge on job searching, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, and will implement small community projects. The program will create a space of mutual support, strengthen self-confidence, promote gender equality, and contribute to building a more inclusive community. - QueerLab Armenia – “From Silence to Voice: Noise Against Gender-Based Violence”
The project combines art, sound, and activism to open public discussion on gender-based violence. As part of the initiative, QueerLab will produce three podcast episodes and hold one public event reflecting on different forms of violence, institutional injustice, and feminist solidarity. The podcasts will feature personal stories and critical conversations, while the FLINTA event in Yerevan will bring together artists who will use music and community support to speak out against violence. - MENQ Youth NGO – “Colors of Freedom: Art Against Violence”
The project will create a public platform in Vanadzor where art becomes a tool for combating gender-based violence and fostering community engagement. The organization will launch an open feminist art competition, an exhibition, and a panel discussion, bringing together young artists, students, and community members. These events will promote open dialogue, raise awareness, and support women’s empowerment in the region. - “Aware Women, Strong Community” Initiative – “Safe Community Without Violence”
This event brings together panel discussions and a visual art exhibition showcasing works of young people from Charentsavan. The discussions will touch on gender-based violence, women’s representation, breaking stereotypes, and community participation. The exhibition will use art as a tool for communication, highlighting themes of silence, resistance, and recovery. The initiative aims to strengthen community engagement and promote a culture of equality. - “Open Mind” Social-Educational NGO – “Lori Dialogue: Women, Art, and Stereotypes”
A two-day feminist event is planned at Loft Vanadzor. It will include panel discussions, poetry readings, a live-format podcast, and a rock concert. The goal is to amplify the voices of young women artists in Lori and create a space for open dialogue on gender-based violence, stereotypes, and inequalities. - Women’s Rights House NGO – “MARI” Performance
The performance aims to highlight the visible and invisible barriers women face in nearly all spheres of life, shaped by stereotypes, unequal treatment, and systemic injustice. It draws parallels with Hovhannes Tumanyan’s poem “Maro.” Based on real stories, the performance serves as a reminder of the importance of care and solidarity toward the people around us. - Svetozaar NGO – “Ending Violence Against Women Is Everyone’s Responsibility”
The project aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence in the villages of Dvin, Aygestan, and Verin Dvin in Ararat Region, focusing on the rights and protection of rural women. The initiative includes seminars, consultations, and panel discussions on forms of violence, legal frameworks, and available support services. It will also provide individual legal and psychological assistance, strengthen women’s participation in community life, and promote feminist values in these communities.
