The Edinburgh chapter of 16 Days of Activism will be launched this weekend

A host of events will be held in Edinburgh as part of a global initiative that aims to end gender-based violence.

The UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism campaign will see a range of activities held across the world in the lead-up to Human Rights Day on December 10.

Sixteen days of events have been organised in the Scottish capital in support of the international campaign, giving women – and men – a platform to share their experiences, opinions, talent and knowledge in the fight against gender inequality.

Locally, the campaign – entitled 16 Days of Action - is being spearheaded by staff members at Edinburgh Napier University’s Changing Perceptions programme, along with Bright Choices, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and the University of St Andrews.

The Edinburgh chapter will be officially launched tomorrow (Saturday 25 November) at a special event at Edinburgh Sheriff Court in Chambers Street.

The Edinburgh programme for the 16 days is varied – with events ranging from Jiu Jitsu and self-defence workshops to a conference on tackling female genital mutilation and film screenings.

Professor Andrea Nolan, principal of Edinburgh Napier University, said: “We pride ourselves on our diverse student body, based on equality and fairness. We encourage active citizenship, innovation and entrepreneurship through education and community engagement. The events of the 16 Days of Activism highlight issues, but also celebrate resilience and the ability to rise above a challenge.”

The UN campaign has also received backing from the Church of Scotland. The Kirk's violence against women group has distributed posters across congregations, which feature helpline numbers for those who are experiencing violence.

The full-line and ticket details for 16 Days of Action can be found online.