Streets free from fears l Your PES Group newsletter
Until every woman is safe, we all have a responsibility to act. ✊
This week, thousands across the world took to the streets to protest from Paris, Brussels, Mexico City, Cape Town, Istanbul, Madrid, Rome… one fight, one demand: Not one more! 🚫
Marking the International Day for the Elimination of Gender Based Violence, we celebrate the communities driving change while recognising how much work remains. More than half of women in the EU have experienced sexual harassment. One in three has faced physical or sexual violence. This is why we mobilise.
This is a special edition of our newsletter, highlighting the actions we are taking as Social Democrats to make streets, workplaces, and communities safer for women. 👇👇👇
From streets to city halls: action for women
Since 2023, the #SafePlace4Women hashtag has been on a journey across Europe from small to big towns, carried hand-to-hand by local leaders and activists who believe that every woman deserves to feel safe in her home, her workplace, her streets. Every commitment strengthens streets, services, and communities, creating a safer Europe for women, and a better Europe for everyone. Join this campaign!
The city of Oss takes a stand for women’s safety
Our Young Elected Politician Sebastiaan Van Der Voort, City councillor of Oss in the Netherlands, has successfully adopted the SafePlace4Women resolution. The Municipality of Oss has also joined the “Orange the World” campaign, part of a global effort to end violence against women. See the initiative on Instagram
Marching for women’s safety
On Sunday 23 November, we joined forces with PES Women and the Party of European Socialists at the demonstration to end violence against women in Brussels. Standing together in the streets, we sent a clear message: every woman has the right to live free from fear and our political commitment must match our words.
Brest hosts EU Dialogue on gender-based violence
On Tuesday 25 November, Nathalie Sarrebezolles, City councillor of Finistère, hosted a EU Local Dialogue in Brest, focusing on key strategies to combat gender-based and sexual violence. Participants highlighted the need for feminist diplomacy, stronger protection for activists, sharing local initiatives, maintaining EU programmes, and creating dedicated funding to support these efforts at the local and regional level.
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Get inspired by examples of bold action for women’s safety
- Krefeld, Germany: On the Day of Action Against Violence Against Women, Krefeld raised flags at the town hall to show support for victims and solidarity with local initiatives. The city calls on everyone to listen, speak out, and support local services, reaffirming that violence has no place in Krefeld. More info
- Bologna, Italy: The “Non Una Di Meno” march filled city streets and culminated in a square demonstration, denouncing patriarchy and demanding concrete measures to end gender-based violence. Read more
- Kreis Lippe, Germany: bakeries handed out 126,000 bread bags with information on support services for women experiencing violence. This simple, everyday gesture raises awareness and provides discreet help where it’s needed most. More info
- Coulaine, France: the city is mobilising once again against gender-based and domestic violence. In November 2025, initiatives included matches, performances, theatre, and public communication, reaching 400 middle school students as well as the wider community to raise awareness and spark action. More info
- Puglia, Italy: The region funded a network of Anti-Violence Centers (CAV), shelters, and local support desks, providing significant resources to strengthen local support on the occasion of 25 November. More info
- Nancy, France: Grand Nancy mobilised with local partners for a week of exhibitions, talks, performances, and prevention activities to raise awareness and support victims of gender-based violence. “Paroles de Femmes” on 27 November, featuring readings, debates, and music, celebrating the voices of women in exile and fostering reflection and solidarity. More info
What’s next?
10-11 December: Last Plenary of 2025!
Our last Group meeting of the year will welcome Silvia Salis, Mayor of Genova in Italy.
15 January 2026: PES Group Extraordinary Meeting in Las Palmas
On 15 January 2026, we will host our external Group meeting in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to discuss the next EU long-term budget. Progressive leaders will come together to propose solutions for investments, public services, and housing, ensuring Europe works for all its citizens. More info here
14-16 January 2026: Progressives Speak Up School
This year, 45 young elected politicians will come together for two days of training on democracy. They will discuss strategies to counter the narratives from conservative parties, share experiences and tips, and strengthen democratic engagement. Full programme here