To draw attention to this day in 2021, Izmir, our Turkish twin-city chose November 25 as the opening day of the new urban green space – an Orange Garden which is, from now, on, adorned by the Women's Monument, dedicated to all victims of domestic violence.

"Izmir is determined to put an end to the violence against women, and I wish that the next garden we plant is dedicated not to the victims of violence, but to those women who defeated it," announced the Mayor of Izmir Mr. Tunç Soyer at the opening ceremony.

To celebrate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Izmir reached out to its twin and partner-cities as well – in the online format. 26 women representing their local governments, academic and business communities, contributed to the recording of a video message, calling upon everyone to make an input to the struggle for a safe and happy future for women.

Volgograd in the video was represented by Ms. Valeriya Vorobieva, Chair of the Committee for the organization of public events and cooperation with law enforcement agencies, Volgograd administration.

"Don't' be silent! You are the ones who can end the violence.

Don't' be afraid! You are the ones who can end the violence.

Don't' forget! You are the ones who can end the violence.

Don't' hide! You are the ones who can end the violence."

Photo by: https://www.unwomen.org/