Orange the World: together against violence against women

From November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the Gelderland-Zuid region is once again participating in the global Orange the World campaign. The mayors of Beuningen, Druten, Heumen, West Maas en Waal, and Wijchen are making a powerful statement together: violence against women and girls must stop.

Violence against women remains a significant issue. In the Netherlands, nearly half of all women experience psychological, physical, or sexual violence during their lifetime. This also happens in Gelderland-Zuid: on the street, at work, at home, on public transport, and when going out. More than 40% of women have experienced sexual harassment at work. One in five women has been a victim of physical or sexual violence at home. And in one in six cases, the perpetrator was the partner or ex-partner.

Municipalities demonstrate joint leadership

The five mayors jointly sign the ally pledge, promising to actively work to stop violence against women and girls. In Beuningen, Mayor Daphne Bergman emphasizes the importance of social safety: "Every woman and every girl must be able to move freely and safely: everywhere and at all times. As a community, we have a responsibility to ensure that violence has no place in our society."

A clear message is also being sent in Druten. Mayor Sigrid Sengers emphasizes how important it is that this issue is not ignored: "Violence against women is not a private matter, but a social problem. By talking about it openly and taking action where necessary, we can bring about real change."

In Heumen, Mayor Joerie Minses strongly agrees and says: "Violence and aggression against women and girls is completely unacceptable. This must stop. They must be able to live their lives safely at all times. Let's work together to make this happen!"

In West Maas en Waal, Mayor Vincent van Neerbos emphasizes the role of men in breaking the taboo: "Unfortunately, violence against women is still not sufficiently discussed among men. However, this is necessary in order to break the taboo."

Mayor Renske Helmer-Englebert of Wijchen adds how important it is to take action yourself: "The fact that women are still victims of femicide, even in our own country, is unacceptable. Violence against women is not a private problem; it is a social problem. And it is up to all of us to stand up, listen, support, and take action where we can."

Orange as a symbol of a new beginning

The color orange represents sunrise: a new beginning in which women and girls can live free from violence. The national theme for 2025, "Municipalities take action: safe, everywhere and always," emphasizes that municipalities play a central role in promoting safety, designing public spaces, and providing shelter. This requires collaboration with partners such as sports clubs, restaurants, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs, all of whom can contribute to preventing and stopping violence against women.

Become a supporter

Anyone can join as a #supporter by signing the pledge at www.orangetheworld.nl. Supporters receive tips on how to contribute to a safe environment for women and girls in their daily lives.

More information

For information, advice, or to report domestic violence, please contact Veilig Thuis Gelderland-Zuid (Safe Home Gelderland-South) at 0800-2000, or via the website www.veiligthuisgelderlandzuid.nl.
For other forms of violence against women, information is available at www.geweldtegenvrouwenmelden.nl/ik-wil-melden
In case of immediate danger, always call 112.