The fight against gender-based violence took center stage as the National Council for Women (NCW) joined forces with international partners during the second edition of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” festival, an event that transformed advocacy into a dynamic cultural movement.
Organized by What Women Want magazine in collaboration with UN Women, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and UNICEF, the festival blended policy dialogue, art, and public engagement to raise awareness and drive collective action. The opening ceremony featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Amal Tawfik, Director of the NCW’s Women’s Complaints Office; Yves Sassenrath, UNFPA Representative in Egypt; and Eric Hosum, the Norwegian Ambassador to Egypt.
Empowering women in the digital age
During panel discussions, Amal Tawfik underscored the National Council for Women’s long-standing commitment to protecting women from all forms of violence, whether physical, psychological, or economic. This year’s conversations placed particular emphasis on the growing risks women face in digital spaces.
Tawfik highlighted NCW initiatives aimed at promoting cybersecurity awareness and digital safety for women, especially those seeking to establish or manage online businesses. By addressing online harassment and digital abuse—often referred to as “e-violence”—the Council aims to remove barriers that prevent women from fully participating in the digital economy.
“Ensuring women’s safety online is no longer optional; it is essential for economic empowerment,” Tawfik noted, stressing that secure digital environments enable women to innovate, lead, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Where art meets activism
Beyond formal discussions, the festival relied on the power of creativity to confront sensitive issues and spark dialogue in accessible and emotionally resonant ways. Art installations and performances throughout the venue invited visitors to engage with the lived experiences of women and children affected by violence.
Among the highlights was the “Safe Spaces” exhibition, a powerful visual showcase depicting the social pressures and daily challenges faced by women and girls. Through mixed media and storytelling, the exhibition encouraged reflection on the concept of safety, both in public and private spheres.
Equally compelling was the “Little Heroes” gallery, organized in partnership with UNICEF. The exhibit demonstrated how artistic expression can serve as a therapeutic and healing tool for children who have experienced violence, offering them a voice and a pathway toward recovery.
Live performances by the Banati Foundation further animated the festival, bringing stories of resilience, survival, and hope to life through expressive movement and theatrical storytelling. These performances underscored the idea that art is not merely a form of expression, but a powerful catalyst for social change.
Support is just a call away
Amid the creative energy and interactive workshops, the NCW emphasized the importance of accessible support services for survivors of violence. Representatives from the Women’s Complaints Office were present throughout the festival to raise awareness of the 15115 Hotline, a critical lifeline offering legal guidance, psychological support, and referral services.
Festival attendees were encouraged to view seeking help not as a last resort, but as a right. The NCW reiterated its commitment to ensuring that no woman faces violence or its aftermath alone, highlighting the role of institutional support in rebuilding lives and restoring dignity.
A continuing call to action
The festival runs through December 22, featuring a diverse program of hands-on workshops, theatrical performances, film screenings, and panel discussions. Each activity reinforces a central message: ending gender-based violence requires sustained effort, collaboration, and community engagement.
By merging advocacy with culture and creativity, the “16 Days of Activism” festival serves as a reminder that change is driven not only by policy, but also by empathy, dialogue, and collective courage.
