The Gouvernement in Maastricht is also turning orange today, as are several other buildings in the country. The actions coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. As every year, this day marks the kick-off of the UN campaign, which lasts until December 10 - Human Rights Day. During this period there are activities all over the world, including a demonstration in Amsterdam coming Sunday.
This year the campaign focuses specifically on preventing violence. People can sign a so-called 'supporter pledge' online, in which they promise not to use violence against women and girls and to break the taboo around the subject by talking about it. The focus is mainly on men, because they can make an important contribution in the fight against violence. A recent survey on sexual violence among UM students showed that nine out of ten perpetrators were men, while most victims were women.