Every year on 25 November, the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. For students and young people across the globe, this day is a reminder that gender-based violence remains one of the most widespread and persistent human rights violations. It affects learning environments, restricts participation, and undermines the safety and dignity of millions of students.
According to UN Women, 35 percent of all women experience physical, psychological, or sexual violence in their lifetime, and over 600 million women live in countries where domestic violence is not criminalised. This violence happens in homes, on campuses, in workplaces, in transit, online, and within communities. For many students around the world, it is a daily barrier to accessing education and living freely.
Violence affects students in every region
Gender-based violence can take many forms, including harassment, threats, manipulation, coercion, human trafficking, femicide, child marriage, and female genital mutilation. Digital violence is also rapidly increasing. Online harassment, stalking, non-consensual image sharing and AI-generated deepfakes are now everyday risks for women and girls navigating digital spaces.
Young women, LGBTQ+ students, refugees and displaced students, students with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and those living in conflict settings face heightened risks. Many do not report abuse due to stigma, lack of protection, or fear of retaliation.
The global student movement stands with survivors
The Global Student Forum stands with students and survivors everywhere. Gender-based violence is not only a violation of rights; it is a direct attack on education and democratic participation. When students do not feel safe, they cannot learn, organise, or engage in public life. Ending violence against women and girls is therefore central to the fight for inclusive, equitable, and accessible education systems.
A world free from violence is essential for students
On this international day, the Global Student Forum reaffirms that combating gender-based violence is fundamental to defending human rights, strengthening democratic spaces, and ensuring that all students can thrive. A future where education is accessible, equitable, and safe requires a collective commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls in every sphere of society.
Students deserve classrooms, campuses, communities, and digital spaces free from fear. A world without violence is not only possible; it is necessary.
