Beyond Progress: Securing gains to end violence against women and girls - Impact report 2024-2025

This magazine-style report presents the results of Spotlight Initiative's work to end violence against women and girls throughout 2024. It features case studies and examples from Spotlight Initiative's second generation of programmes, as well as preliminary findings from its forthcoming sustainability assessment on the long-term impact of its first phase.

The report found that 97 per cent of Spotlight Initiative countries and regions sustained achievements, even after programme closure, indicating that comprehensive models for ending violence can drive lasting change and progress. 

Additionally, Spotlight Initiative was found to have contributed to domestic resource mobilization in the context of reduced official development aid.

Since 2019, Spotlight Initiative's investments have ensured that:

• The overall conviction rate for gender-based violence doubled across 13 countries.
• More than 540 laws or policies were signed or strengthened to end violence against women and girls.
• USD 195 million was delivered to civil society organizations (49 per cent of activity funds).
• More than 5,000 local and grassroots women's rights organizations reported having greater influence and agency.
• Close to 3 million women and girls accessed gender-based violence services, including long-term recovery services 
• Nearly 8 million young people participated in in- and out-of-school programmes promoting gender-equitable attitudes and behaviours.
• Close to 6 million men and boys were educated on positive masculinity, respectful family relationships and non-violent conflict resolution. 
• Campaigns to prevent violence against women and girls reached an audience of more than 385 million.
• 50 countries strengthened their National Action Plans to eliminate violence against women and girls.