The Zonta Club of Basel, Switzerland, took part in numerous activities during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
from 25 November to 10 December.

As the main focus this year in Switzerland is psychological violence, also called mental abuse, the club wanted to make invisible violence visible!

More than 40% of women in Europe are affected by experiences of psychological violence. 20% of women have experienced stalking at least once in their life. Patriarchal structures, the devaluation of women and unequal power relations constitute the breeding ground for this violence. These social relations also lead to the trivialization of gender-based violence.

The club raised awareness of the issue by creating cartoons representing ten typical situations of mental abuse, such as generating feelings of guilt, stalking, humiliation, financial pressure, belittling and more, which are often subtle and invisible from the outside.

These cartoons are exhibited in several public spaces at various locations in Basel, such as the University hospital, University library, open neighborhood meeting points, high schools, restaurants, shops and more, where women (and men) from any age and any social or cultural background could watch at their own pace, without being observed.

“These cartoons are a wonderful way to catch people’s attention and make them think of this type of domestic violence,” said a host.

The exhibition was opened on 25 November by the head of violence protection and victim support, Sonia Roest Vontobel, and the government councilor of the Canton of Basel City, Stefanie Eymann.

Stefanie highlighted the role of every party, from local associations to competent authorities, on this major issue.

“Psychological violence happens very often within one’s own four walls. Therefore, projects have been started to increase the sensitization of people and to provide tools and proposals for support and help,” said Stefanie.

To make the impact of this campaign more visible, media and social media coverage were very supportive, and the club promoted the campaign through local TV, radio, and the press. Information and addresses are also provided where women and girls can turn if necessary.

With this, Vice Club President Christina Rheinhardt and the club encourage people to think of their behavior and promote non-violent behavior.

Finally, every year, the club continued the Orange the World campaign by lighting orange buildings in the city center, which ties in with one of the most significant annual advocacy campaigns, Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women.