The Evangelical Mission in Solidarity (EMS) is launching a call for projects and programmes to combat gender-based violence (GBV) as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed from 25 November to 10 December 2025.

€100,000 funding available for GBV initiatives

EMS has committed €100,000 to support initiatives that end GBV and promote gender justice within its fellowship and member churches. Grants of up to €10,000 are available for projects running between 1 June 2026 and 30 June 2027. Applications are open until 28 February 2026. Email GBV-Fund@dont-want-spam.ems-online.org to request application materials and details.

Why this matters

Gender-based violence remains a global challenge affecting mainly women, but also men, and children across all communities. EMS stands united with UN Women, civil society, and faith-based organizations worldwide to address GBV’s intersectional and multifaceted causes.

“None of our churches or associations should stand alone in this fight,” says Rev. Eleanor McCormick, Head of Unit Women and Gender at EMS. “Our international fellowship can pool resources and ideas – strengthening the body of Christ for all, regardless of gender identity.”

Critical questions driving change

EMS member churches, such as the Moravian Church in South Africa (MCSA), are asking vital questions:

- How can we include men and boys in GBV discussions without alienating them?
- How do we amplify youth voices in shaping GBV responses?
- How can we remove stigma around GBV in our churches?

“These are the conversations we want to encourage across all EMS regions,” McCormick adds. “We aim to fund spaces where these dialogues can happen.”

Join the movement

During the 16 Days of Activism, EMS will share stories and voices from its fellowship. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow EMS on Instagram and Facebook, standing in solidarity with survivors and working toward a future free from GBV. Follow us and be part of the change.

The campaign follows on from the conference in Bad Boll (September 2025), at which delegates from South Africa and Germany committed to joint action against GBV. 

Support this important work by making a donation!

If you would like to support EMS's efforts to combat gender-based violence, you can do so by making a donation. Every contribution enables us to protect, educate and empower victims worldwide, and promote lasting change.