What would it take for a girl to grow up in a community where she feels empowered, supported and safe in every aspect of her life?

Behind closed doors, generations of women and girls endure harm - normalizing a cycle that must be broken. Violence, often hidden and justified by deeply rooted beliefs, continues to thrive in silence. While the Maldives has made strides in addressing gender-based violence, 1 in 3 women aged 15-49 has experienced some form of violence in her lifetime.

After decades of advocacy and action, why hasn't the needle moved enough? Laws can punish perpetrators and services can support survivors, but neither can address underlying attitudes that allow violence to persist. This is why mindset shifts - changing what our communities believe is acceptable - are critical. Without breaking down these harmful norms, the cycle will continue, leaving generations at risk.

Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence begins - a global movement that amplifies the call to end violence against women and girls. It is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to stand against the injustices faced by women and girls in our communities.

This year, the message is clear: “Together For Her.” It is a commitment to unite as a society, ensuring no woman or girl is left behind, creating safe spaces where women feel supported, confident and empowered to reclaim their lives. At its heart, it's about transforming mindsets and building a culture where respect, dignity and equality are not aspirations, but the foundation of our communities.

“Prevention is key,” shared Shadiya Ibrahim, Head of Office of UNFPA Maldives. “Prevention starts at home, within families and extends to our institutions. When everyone promotes peace and actively challenges violence in all its forms, the change we seek becomes possible. Shifting mindsets is one of the greatest challenges, but it is also the most essential step towards creating a world free from violence.”

This vision comes alive today with the launch of the Futtaru Journey, an event organized by UNFPA Maldives in collaboration with the Women’s Football Club and Aloha Ufaa.

Through activities that foster self-discovery and connection, this event blends ocean-based healing, empowerment through sports and community dialogues to create a space for growth, change and meaningful conversations.

“There is a culture of silence in our society when it comes to sexual abuse and gender-based violence,” shared Mayan, president of the Women’s Football Club. “By organizing events like this and creating such spaces, we actively help break that silence and give a voice to the voiceless.”

The Futtaru Journey reflects the need for holistic approaches that address the root causes of violence. By providing women with the tools and opportunities to rediscover their strength and confidence, it sparks ripple effects that inspire broader societal change, paving the way for safer and more inclusive communities.

“The ocean is my teacher, healer and protector,” shared Shaazu, founder of Aloha Ufaa. “It has taught me countless lessons, guided me through difficult times and offered love and resilience. Like women, the ocean embodies both strength and vulnerability - an inspiring reflection of the balance that we strive for in our own lives.”

But prevention requires more than individual empowerment, laws or services; it demands collective action and a willingness to challenge deeply ingrained beliefs. It’s about building a society where respect and equality are embedded in every interaction, and where violence is no longer justified or excused.

The 16 Days of Activism is not just a campaign; it’s a call to action to challenge harmful beliefs, shift societal norms and create lasting change. By working together, for her, we can build a Maldives where every woman and girl is safe, supported and empowered to live a life free from violence.