Gender-based violence is a pervasive global issue affecting millions. It takes many forms, from physical and sexual abuse to psychological manipulation and socio-economic discrimination. The prevalence is staggering, with 1 in 3 women experiencing violence in their lifetime.

Societal factors like patriarchal norms and cultural acceptance perpetuate this violence. The impact is far-reaching, affecting physical and mental health, social connections, and economic stability. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing gender-based violence and promoting equality.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence

Forms of gender-based violence

• Gender-based violence (GBV) involves violence directed against individuals based on their gender identity, expression, or perceived gender
• Physical violence encompasses domestic violence, intimate partner violence (IPV), sexual assault, and human trafficking
• Psychological violence includes emotional abuse, verbal abuse, coercion (manipulation), and controlling behaviors (monitoring, isolating)
• Sexual violence consists of rape, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, forced pregnancy or abortion, and female genital mutilation (FGM)
• Socio-economic violence involves discrimination in the workplace (unequal pay, limited advancement), unequal access to education and resources, forced marriage, and honor killings (murder for perceived shame)

Global prevalence of gender-based violence

• Globally, approximately 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence throughout their lifetime (IPV, non-partner violence)
• Intimate partners commit 38% of murders involving female victims
• Female genital mutilation affects 200 million women worldwide
• Forced sexual encounters impact 15 million adolescent girls aged 15-19
• In 2017, partners or family members killed 1 in 2 women who were murdered globally
• Women and girls account for 71% of all human trafficking victims (sexual exploitation, forced labor)

Societal factors in gender-based violence

• Patriarchal norms and gender inequality perpetuate unequal power dynamics between men and women and reinforce rigid gender roles and expectations
• Cultural acceptance of violence against women normalizes domestic violence and promotes victim-blaming attitudes
• Inadequate laws addressing GBV and limited access to justice for survivors indicate a lack of legal protection and enforcement
• Women's financial dependence on abusers and limited access to education and employment opportunities contribute to economic inequality and dependence
• Marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, and disabled persons face increased vulnerability due to intersectionality and discrimination

Impact of gender-based violence

• Physical health consequences include injuries, chronic pain, disabilities, sexual and reproductive health issues (infertility, pregnancy complications), and increased risk of HIV and other STIs
• Mental health consequences comprise post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, and addiction
• Social and economic consequences involve isolation, loss of support networks, reduced productivity, job loss, homelessness, and housing instability
• Trauma can be passed down through families, leading to an intergenerational impact and increased risk of future perpetration or victimization
• At the community level, GBV reinforces gender inequalities, normalizes violence, and strains healthcare and social services (emergency care, shelters, legal aid)