This is an interesting moment in the global women's rights movement. Over the past two days, women around the world have been taking to the streets to demand equal treatment and freedom from sexual abuse. American activist Eve Ensler's call for women to act in concert under the "One Billion Rising" has certainly played an important role in this surge of activism. But that's not the only inspiration for the creative protests and flash mobs that have been cropping up in some of the most unlikely places. And yes, even a few men have joined in.
Above, 3,939 students at Gwalior ITM university in India try to break the record of the largest female gender sign.
Indian students take part in V-Day's One Billion Rising campaign dance in New Delhi on February 14. The recent fatal gang rape of a medical student in Delhi has provoked a movement to combat sexual violence.
An Egyptian protestor demonstrates in Cairo against sexual harassment on February 12. Many female Egyptian activists have become victims of sexual violence as they have lent their voices to the country's pro-democracy movement.
Women in Hong Kong participate in an event coordinated by One Billion Rising on February 14. Various dance-related demonstrations took place around the city.
Egyptian protestors demonstrate against sexual violence in Cairo on February 12.
Afghan women stage a protest march against sexual violence on February 14. The protest was met by police in riot gear. Many female Afghans worry that the withdrawal of the last U.S. troops next year will also mean an end to the current relative freedom to work toward improved conditions for women.
Bangladeshi school girls form a human chain as part of a One Billion Rising rally in Dhaka on February 14.
On February 12, an Egyptian protestor belonging to the "Tahrir Bodyguards" wears a helmet that reads "protection of Tahrir." The group started in response to an attack in November when a male mob ssaulted a woman in the square and tore off her clothes, dragging her through the streets.
Men and women dance in Mexico City as a part of One Billion Rising on February 14.
This logo designed by Arab protestors in Israel reads "The uprising of women in the Arab world." On February 12, Israeli protestors came out in support of the demonstrations against sexual violence in Cairo.
Indian sexual minority groups and their supporters hold balloons during a protest on February 14 in Kolkata against physical and mental violence against women and girls.
A woman in Tel Aviv carries a sign depicting a Palestinian cartoon character: The Arabic text reads, simply, "Freedom." The protest on February 12 supported a parallel event by female protestors in Cairo.
Egyptian men in Tahrir Square carry a sign that says "No Touching."
An Indian girl celebrates as part of the One Billion Rising campaign.
