Six embassies in Greece — Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom — have joined the Greek Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a joint video message released on Wednesday, urging action to end gender-based violence.
In a statement accompanying the initiative, the Canadian Embassy stressed that gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most widespread human rights violations worldwide, transcending borders, cultures, and social groups, and disproportionately affecting women and girls.
Too often, the statement noted, such violence is “hidden, normalized, or ignored,” including within the participating countries themselves. The embassies emphasized their shared commitment to prevention, protection, accountability, and survivor-centered support.
The joint message forms part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign – an annual call to mobilize communities and highlight that ending violence is a collective responsibility.
GBV can take many forms, but rape, sexual assault, and domestic violence remain among the most common and least reported crimes. Survivors frequently face stigma, fear, and long-lasting trauma, underscoring the need for stronger services, better protection mechanisms, and sustained efforts to end impunity.
The embassies also paid tribute to survivors’ resilience and to the work of human rights defenders, civil society groups, frontline responders, and public institutions advocating for change and supporting those affected.
They welcomed measures taken by Greek authorities, including the establishment of the 24-hour Helpline 15900, which offers confidential counselling in Greek and English, legal guidance, psychological support, and access to safe shelters for survivors.
The participating embassies are calling on the public to stand against all forms of gender-based violence and to amplify the message using the hashtag #16Days, helping promote a safer and more equal future for women and girls worldwide.
The United Nations General Assembly has designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.