On 25 October, cities around the world celebrated Orange Day to raise awareness and promote action to prevent gender-based violence, especially sexual harassment and other forms of sexual violence.

Orange Day was initiated in July 2012 by the Secretary-General’s UNiTE Campaign to End Violence against Women as a monthly moment for worldwide activities by UN country offices and civil society organizations to highlight preventing and ending violence against women and girls, not only once a year, on 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women). Activities on the 25th of every month focus on a specific theme. This month, Orange Day highlighted addressing sexual violence in cities’ public spaces.

As part of 25 October commemorations, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea launched a song competition for musicians to raise awareness and advocate against all forms of violence against women.

“We are looking for lyrics that tell the story of Safe Cities and to make our public spaces safe for women, girls and for everyone,” said Alethia Jimenez, Team Leader of the Safe Cities Programme in Port Moresby which focuses on the safety of the city markets.