Speak Up High – Roar Out Loud: Dutch Embassy Strengthens Advocacy Against Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue worldwide, with a woman losing her life to such violence every ten minutes. In Bangladesh, the situation is equally alarming, as 54% of ever-married women have experienced physical or sexual violence by their spouses. Many survivors suffer in silence, while only a few find the courage to speak out. 

At an event titled “Mukh Kholo, Awaz Tulo” (Speak Up High – Roar Out Loud), held at Alliance Française de Dhaka, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands reinforced its commitment to ending gender-based violence. Organised to mark the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the event served as a platform to unite voices and raise awareness about this pressing issue.

In his address, Mr. Thijs Woudstra, Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands, emphasised the embassy’s unwavering support for the cause. “At the Embassy, we are listening and fully support these efforts,” he stated, urging collective action to create a safer, more equitable world for all.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign, observed globally, aims to amplify these unheard voices. This year’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” calls for solidarity in fighting for women’s rights and safety, encouraging women to stand up and demand an end to violence.

As part of this campaign, the Netherlands Embassy launched a social media initiative involving influencers, activists, and musicians to raise awareness. The Dhaka event united diverse voices, featuring performances and discussions with artists like Farzana Wahid Shayan, Sovvota, and Warda Ashraf, alongside social workers and journalists.

Alliance Française Dhaka Director, Mr. François Grosjean, stressed the need for collective action, saying, “We must raise our voices against violence in every space streets, workplaces, and homes to drive meaningful change.”

With over 50 participants in attendance, the event underscored the importance of continued advocacy. Attendees pledged to amplify their efforts to end gender-based violence in Bangladesh and beyond. Organised by the Netherlands Embassy with strategic support from Red Orange Limited, the event reinforced the campaign’s message of unity and action.