By Dr. Deekana T. Kaiser
On November 26, 2025, Mahidol University International College (MUIC) marked its first year participating in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence with Diplomacy for Equality: Advancing the 16 Days of Activism, a high-level panel that drew over 200 guests to Charinyarasami Hall, the event’s venue.
Framed within Beijing+30, the 2025 global review of progress since the Beijing Platform for Action, the event explored this year’s theme: “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls.” MUIC proudly “Oranged the World” in solidarity while respectfully observing the national mourning period.
While the 16 Days campaign focuses on ending violence against women and girls, gender-based violence affects people of all genders, an issue heightened by democratic backsliding, anti-feminist movements, and nostalgia for “traditional” gender roles. It was especially inspiring that half the panel—and more than half the audience—were men, signaling that gender equality strengthens, rather than threatens, male leadership. As highlighted: “Feminism is not a zero-sum game—it creates dignity and safety for everyone.”
The distinguished panel featured:
• Andrew Egan, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Embassy of Australia
• Cathy Hardman, Political and Economic Counsellor, Embassy of Canada
• Somchai Yensabai, Country Programme Coordinator, UN Women Thailand
• Mia Hyun, Regional Gender Policy Specialist
Moderated by Dr. Deekana T. Kaiser, IRGA Program Director
Digital violence emerged as a global concern—38% of women have experienced online harassment and 85% have witnessed it. As one of the fastest-growing forms of violence in Asia Pacific, students were encouraged to call out harm, build safer digital spaces, and lead the next generation of equality efforts.
Panel insights were powerful and personal. Mr. Egan shared searing experiences from decades working on GBV across the Pacific, shaping Australia’s AUD 100 million investment in GBV prevention, and highlighted Australia’s move to limit social media access for young children. Ms. Hardman discussed Canada’s feminist foreign policy and Women, Peace and Security commitments, emphasizing crisis-governance lessons amid rising conflict-related sexual violence. Khun Somchai outlined how UN Women Thailand translates global commitments into national action, and Ms. Hyun examined ASEAN’s political will and how youth and universities can influence reform.
A dynamic Q&A showcased IRGA’s diverse student body, with thoughtful questions on GBV across Asia, digital safety, and the role of universities in driving change. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students describing the event as relevant and empowering.
The International Relations and Global Affairs (IRGA) program hopes to make this an ongoing platform for dialogue and action—advancing gender equality, global citizenship, and social justice on campus and beyond.
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About the Author
Dr. Deekana T. Kaiser is the Program Director for International Relations and Global Affairs and a development professional with 17 years of experience across Asia-Pacific, Africa and Europe in counter-trafficking, gender equality, and inclusive development. A survivor and advocate, she champions survivor-centered approaches to human rights.
