The Bureau of Gender Affairs in Jamaica, with support from UNFPA, hosted the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW) Banner event on December 19, 2024. The event reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) and highlighted the global theme, "Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to End Violence Against Women."

The observance, held under the patronage of Hon. Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, highlighted the Jamaican government’s commitment to creating a society free from violence.  Minister Grange emphasised the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders. “Relentless advocacy serves as a powerful tool to challenge all forms of violence against women and girls. It requires leveraging multi-stakeholder,” she said,

The Minister also led a symbolic sand-pouring ceremony with UNFPA Liaison Officer Andre Richards, and other key partners. This act of unity underscored the shared responsibility of all sectors to end GBV and foster a culture of equality and safety.

Andre Richards, in his remarks, highlighted the sobering findings from the 2021 Reproductive Health Survey for Jamaica produced by National Family Planning Board, which reported that 38% of ever-partnered women had experienced abuse. Richards emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting, “We must ensure that women and girls are not only survivors but also thrivers.” He praised the Bureau of Gender Affairs for their ongoing efforts, including their partnership with UNFPA on initiatives like the GBV in Emergencies training earlier in the year.

The event’s "VAW Talk" segment was a poignant moment, providing a platform for survivors and service providers to share their experiences. These stories highlighted the resilience of women and underscored the urgency of systemic action to break the cycle of violence.

Richards commended the Bureau for their leadership in implementing the National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Gender-Based Violence (NSAP-GBV), a framework that continues to guide the country’s efforts. He called for stronger political will, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and greater investment in empowering women and girls.

As the world approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the IDEVAW Banner event served as a call to honor past commitments and redouble efforts to address violence against women. Richards concluded, “Together, we can build a future where every woman and girl can live free from violence, free from fear, and with the opportunity to achieve her fullest potential.”

Supported by UNFPA, the 2025 IDEVAW event was not only a reflection of progress but a reminder of the work that remains to eliminate GBV in Jamaica and beyond.