Violence can be open or evident, such as when someone uses their strength or position of power to hurt another person intentionally, but violence can also happen in more subtle and non-physical ways. Sexual and domestic abuse typically happens out of sight, and violence in the form of intimidation, threats, neglect, or bullying may be harder to recognise but can cause serious mental or emotional harm.

Marginalized groups are often disproportionately victims of violence, due to race, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, age or socioeconomic status. Young people are too often the victims of violence, but they can also be changemakers and activists for peace.

Whether it’s in your community or on the other side of the world, you can stand up for vulnerable groups, start a petition or awareness campaign, and organize for peace and justice everywhere.

Image Credit © UNICEF/UNI195858/Imperato