As part of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence – Nov 25 to Dec 10 – a host of countries worldwide are gearing up to take action and raise awareness. And there’s still plenty to do: according to figures from the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), “one in three women will be raped, beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her lifetime.”
This year, once again, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women hopes to light up the world in orange, symbolizing a brighter future, as part of its ‘Orange the World’ campaign. For the occasion, buildings and monuments the world over will be “oranged” to “recall the need for a violence-free future,” the UN explains on its website. Here’s a look at some of the world’s buildings and landmarks that are lighting up in solidarity.
Place Beauvau (Paris, France)
Home to the Ministry of the Interior, this emblematic square in the French capital’s 8th arrondissement is taking part in the ‘Orange The World’ campaign for the first time this year. “Later, we will illuminate Place Beauvau in orange,” Minister Delegate for Citizenship, attached to the Minister of the Interior, Marlène Schiappa, told BFM TV, Monday, Nov 23.
Hôtel de Ville (Le Havre, France)
From a footbridge to power station chimneys to the fountains of the Hôtel de Ville (city hall) … Since Nov 23, the city of Le Havre has illuminated several of its buildings and landmarks in orange. The initiative is being piloted by the Zonta NGO, affiliated with the UN.
Grand-Place (Brussels, Belgium)
Thanks to the Belgian branch of ‘Soroptimist’, an international NGO working to combat stereotypes and improve the lives of women, several neighborhoods in Brussels will shine with an orange glow when night falls. The Hôtel de Ville (city hall) building in the city’s famous Grand-Place will be lighting up in orange, as well as Square Montgomery and the Reyers Tower.
Château de Rolle (Switzerland)
Like last year, the municipality of Rolle in the Canton of Vaud plans to light up its castle, which sits on the shore of Lake Geneva, Nov 25-29. Due to covid-19 restrictions, the event bringing together associations and the public, traditionally organized by the municipality, will not be held this year.
The University of Newcastle (Australia)
In Newcastle, Australia, Civic Park and The University of Newcastle’s NUspace building will be lit up in orange Nov 25. “In addition to the light installation, a public vigil will be livestreamed from Civic Park on the night of Nov 25 to remember victims of violence,” the university explains.