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 jointly making a strong statement: violence against women and girls must stop.

Violence against women remains a major problem. In the Netherlands, nearly half of all women experience psychological, physical, or sexual violence at some point in their lives. This also happens in Gelderland-Zuid: on the street, at work, at home, on public transportation, and while out and about. 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 for one in six, the perpetrator was a partner or ex-partner.

Municipalities are demonstrating collective leadership

The five mayors are jointly signing the ally pledge, through which they commit to actively working to end 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 about 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 not be swept under the rug: “Violence against women is not a private matter, but a social problem. By speaking openly about it together 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 are completely unacceptable. This must stop. They must be able to live their lives safely at all times. Let’s stand 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 to break the taboo.”

Mayor Renske Helmer-Englebert of Wijchen adds that it is important to take action ourselves: “The fact that women are still victims of femicide, even in our own country, is unacceptable. Violence against women is not a private matter; it is a societal problem. And it is up to all of us to stand up, listen, support, and take action wherever possible.”

Orange as a symbol of a new beginning

The color orange symbolizes sunrise: a new beginning in which women and girls can live free from violence. The national theme for 2025, “It’s up to the municipalities: 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, the hospitality industry, educational institutions, and businesses, all of which can contribute to preventing and stopping violence against women.

Become a supporter

Anyone can join as a #supporter by taking the pledge at www.orangetheworld.nl. Supporters receive tips on how to help create 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 at 0800-2000, or visit 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.