Hundreds of women are set to take part in a march through Belfast city centre this weekend to highlight the rise in misogyny, abuse and controlling behaviour they are facing, both from individuals and groups.
The UK Women’s March 2025 will take place on Saturday, January 18, which organisers have pointed out is just two days before Donald Trump’s inauguration as US President.
The group is protesting against violence against women and girls, transphobia, Taliban rule in Afghanistan and “Nigel Farage picking up the anti-abortion mantle here in the UK”.
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Marches have been organised for Belfast, Exeter, Bristol, Sheffield, London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Brighton, Leeds and many other cities.
As part of the nationwide effort, Belfast will march alongside the 21 other UK regions, joining thousands of people to champion women’s rights on both a local and global scale.
The Belfast march will begin at 12 noon leaving from Custom House Square at 1pm before making its way along Victoria Street, High Street, Bridge Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, Donegall Place and Donegall Square North before finishing up at Belfast City Hall with a series of rallying speeches, highlighting the issues facing women and girls across not just the UK, but further afield as well.
The peaceful protest is expected to be attended by many people from Belfast and the surrounding areas who are passionate about advocating for women’s rights and gender equality. Organisers say the march will feature speeches from local organisers and a vibrant display of banners and signs, all united in the call for change.
Participants are being encouraged to bring their voices, energy, and support as the community comes together to stand in solidarity with women worldwide.
“We’re really proud that Belfast is part of the many regions that will be marching nationwide that day,” says Joanne, one of the lead organisers. “Our march is a call for action on a national and international level – we want women in our community to feel empowered and supported, and to show the world that we stand united.”
“This march is about showing the world that women’s rights are human rights,” added Chelsea, another lead organiser. “Violence against women has been declared a national emergency in the UK, this is simply not acceptable in 2025”.
Violence against women has been declared a national emergency in the UK, with a reported 37% increase in violent crimes against women reported from 2018 – 2023. The NPCC has reported that at least one woman in every 12 is a victim annually, with the true rate likely to be much higher.
The organisers invite everyone who believes in equality, justice, and human rights to join the march and stand in solidarity with women worldwide and demand action on the pressing issues affecting women’s rights.
More information is available here.
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