Hanoi, Viet Nam – December 8, 2024 – Tran Nhan Tong pedestrian street and Thien Quang Lake buzzed with energy and unity today as over 2,000 runners of all ages, genders, and abilities participated in the 3rd annual “Run for Zero Violence Against Women and Girls in Viet Nam.” The event, part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with the theme “Towards 30 years of the Beijing Declaration and platform for action: Unite to end violence against women” and Viet Nam’s National Action Month on Gender Equality and Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response themed "Ensuring social security, empowering and creating opportunities for women and girls to achieve gender equality and eliminate gender-based violence” symbolized a powerful collective commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

Building on the success of the previous two years, this year’s run was continuously organized by the Center for Studies and Applied Sciences in Gender – Family – Women and Adolescent (CSAGA), with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Viet Nam, the Australian Government. The race champions a vision for a joyful, violence-free life for women and girls, who are often disproportionately affected by gender-based violence - by using a widely loved and accessible sports activity. Interestingly, this year’s event witnessed the financial contribution and support of diverse international organizations (i.e. The Norwegian Organisation for Gender and Sexual Diversity), embassies (i.e. Swiss), private sector entities (Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre, ON company), and the runners themselves reflecting an ever-expanding determination to tackle this pressing issue.

Ms Nguyen Van Anh, Director of CSAGA shared their pride in the event's success: “Joining this event today, we stand for a peaceful, prosperous Viet Nam, saying no to gender-based violence. We may be in the minority, or we may be in the majority, but when we come together for something meaningful, I have strong faith in the potential for positive change. Let us celebrate the beauty of diversity, respect the happiness of individuals, couples and families, for a Viet Nam free of gender-based violence.”

UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam Matt Jackson reflected on the day’s success: "Today’s incredible turnout is a testament to the strength of this community and the growing recognition that violence against women and girls can never be tolerated. Together, we are creating a future where everyone can live free from fear of violence. Our efforts today have moved us one step closer to that goal, and we will not stop until it is achieved."

Development Counsellor of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Cherie Russell expressed in her welcoming speech: “Australia is proud to support initiatives like this that bring to light the ongoing challenges of gender-based violence. The energy and determination displayed by everyone today is inspiring, and it reaffirms our shared commitment to ensuring that no woman or child has to live in fear of violence."

Over 2,000 participants joined the event, including vulnerable communities such as women, children, young people, and LGBTQI+, people with disabilities, symbolising the inclusivity of the movement to end violence against women and girls. Participants had the option of running in the 2.5km "Love" course or the 5km "Companion" course, each representing solidarity and respect for women and girls.

Beyond the race itself, the event became a “Festival of Love and Happiness”, providing a wonderful opportunity for participants to come together. Educational and awareness-raising activities were held throughout the day, ensuring participants left with a deeper understanding of gender-based violence, the need for collective action to combat gender-based violence, and the availability of support services. The event also amplified the voices of survivors and advocates, fostering a powerful dialogue on prevention and response to gender-based violence.

Representing the voices of 200 people-with-disabilities runners in today’s race, 20-year-old Mai* said, “As a woman with a disability, I’ve often felt invisible or overlooked, but today, being surrounded by people united for this cause makes me feel empowered and included. Rolling alongside others who share the same determination to create a safer, more equal world is incredibly inspiring. It is a powerful reminder that every voice matters and that together, we can make a real difference. I’m proud to be part of this event, demonstrating that everyone has a role in ending violence and building a future rooted in respect and equality.”

Following the triumphs of the 2022 and 2023 events, this year’s race further cemented its role as a flagship initiative for promoting gender equality and raising awareness about violence against women and girls in Viet Nam. As the runners crossed the finish line today, they carried more than medals –the collective hopes of a nation committed to achieving equality, respect, and a future free from violence against women and girls. Please find here in this folder the photos of the Run Race.

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