Sofia, November 24 (BTA) - Domestic violence has been growing sharply in the pandemic. Data from the Animus Association show that out of the 1,852 calls made to its emergency phone number since the start of the year, 1,280 concerned domestic violence. Interior Ministry data too show an increase of distress calls in 2019-2021, and at the moment they are up to 90 per day. One in every three women in Bulgaria has been the target of domestic violence. Domestic violence victims since the start of the year are 15, while cruelty of the act has increased.

The figures and findings were publicized by Bistra Ilieva of Zonta International at a news conference on Wednesday hosted by BTA's National Press Club. Experts from the foundation presented a campaign called 16 Days of Activism and the activities that will be carried out in Zonta Bulgaria's clubs in seven Bulgaria.

The experts said that gender-based violence is not inevitable and totally possible to counter, by joining the campaign.

The purpose of the campaign is to make aware as many women and children in Bulgaria as possible about the risks of internet use and the dangers of cyberbullying.

The campaign was presented on the eve of November 25 marked as the Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on an initiative of the United Nations.

On November 25, landmark buildings in Bulgaria will be lit in orange, the colour of the activism. RY/ZH//