As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, UNFICYP convened powerful discussions with uniformed and civilian personnel, alongside civil society partners, to galvanize action toward ending violence against women and girls.

We were honoured to host Jane Houng, founder of Becky’s Buttons, who transformed the profound personal tragedy of losing her daughter, Rebecca, into a global movement for women’s safety.

During her visit, Jane also engaged directly with Cypriot civil society representatives from across the divide at the Ledra Palace Hotel inside the buffer zone, fostering a unique dialogue on shared challenges and solutions. 

She was accompanied by Vana Mghsijerjian, one of the finalists of an initiative launched by Becky’s Buttons in Lebanon this year- the Rebecca Dykes Changemaker Challenge, which called on young people to design initiatives that challenge misogyny and can help create safer communities for women and girls.

A call for sustained commitment

In his opening remarks, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Khassim Diagne, underscored the urgent global challenge: “Violence against women and girls remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world. While significant progress has been made, 1 in 3 women still experiences violence in her lifetime. Progress is hampered by harmful stereotypes, limited resources, and weak implementation of laws.”

Jane’s powerful testimony, informed by her discussions both at UNFICYP and with the local community, reinforced that ending this violence requires sustained commitment, systemic change, and unwavering collective action.

Engaging uniformed peacekeepers: A new audience

Jane shared a poignant reflection on addressing UNFICYP peacekeepers, an audience predominantly composed of uniformed personnel: “Usually, I speak with students. This was a first for me, to be in a room full of a majority of men in uniform. I saw genuine engagement and interest. Several approached me afterward to say it resonated deeply, as in their roles, they have witnessed these issues firsthand.”

This unique dialogue highlighted the critical role that all personnel, especially uniformed peacekeepers, play in recognizing, preventing, and responding to gender-based violence within their spheres of influence.

UNFICYP’ steadfast support in Cyprus

In Cyprus, UNFICYP remains steadfast in supporting and amplifying the work of courageous advocates like Jane. Our commitment is reflected in facilitating crucial conversations, from headquarters to the buffer zone. We are dedicated to fostering the partnerships and driving the solutions necessary to eliminate gender-based violence on the island and around the world.

About the 16 Days of Activism
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign. It begins on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.