University of Groningen Highlights Global Awareness Effort with Orange the World 2025 Participation

The Academy building in 2019

(IN BRIEF) The University of Groningen will participate in the United Nations’ Orange the World campaign by lighting its Academy Building orange on 25 November, drawing attention to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. With the 2025 theme “The municipalities’ turn: Safe, Everywhere, Always,” the campaign encourages stronger local action ahead of the 2026 municipal elections to create safer communities. The University reminds students, staff, and visitors that support is available for anyone experiencing or witnessing violence, harassment, or intimidation.

(PRESS RELEASE) GRONINGEN, 24-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — University of Groningen will illuminate its Academy Building in orange on 25 November to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. By participating in Orange the World, the United Nations’ global initiative aimed at combating violence against women and girls, the University signals its continued commitment to raising awareness and encouraging visible public support for ending violence in all its forms.

This year’s campaign adopts the theme “The municipalities’ turn: Safe, Everywhere, Always,” highlighting the pivotal role that local governments play in fostering safer communities. With municipal elections approaching in 2026, the campaign calls on municipalities to take clear, proactive measures ensuring that every individual—regardless of where they live or move—can feel secure in both public and private spaces. The focus on local action underscores that meaningful change requires active involvement from local authorities, institutions, and the communities they serve.

The University of Groningen also emphasizes that help is always available for those affected by violence, intimidation, harassment, or concerning incidents. Whether someone has personally experienced such behaviour or has witnessed something that crosses boundaries, the University offers several accessible support channels where individuals can seek assistance, guidance, and a safe environment to talk.

University of Groningen researchers are dedicated to understanding gender, violence, and the challenges faced by women and girls in society. Below, you can read several interviews that shed light on their important work.

• Janet Fuller on wife beaters and the influence of language

• Julie Karsten on the influence of abuse on later partner choice

• Martina Althof on femicide and the role of gender in violence

• Barbara Postema on how women are portrayed in comics and ‘fridging’

Media Contact:

email: communicatie@rug.nl

SOURCE: University of Groningen