Define and describe gender - based violence
Gender-based violence refers to any form of violence which is inflicted upon a person on the basis of their gender. It can be physical, sexual, or emotional in nature, and can occur within a range of contexts, such as within the home, in the workplace, or within the community. This violence is typically inflicted upon women and girls, although men and boys can also be victims. Examples of gender-based violence include sexual coercion or assault, domestic violence and intimate partner violence, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and honor-based violence. It is a major human rights violation that can have a devastating impact on individuals and communities, perpetuating discrimination and gender inequality. Gender-based violence is a global issue, affecting millions of people around the world, and requires a concerted effort from governments, civil society, and the wider community to end it.
Gender-based violence refers to any act that is perpetrated against an individual based on their gender, which results in physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm or suffering. It is rooted in unequal power relations between genders and is predominantly targeted towards women and girls, although it can also affect men and boys. Gender-based violence can take various forms, including but not limited to:
1. Physical violence: This includes acts such as physical assault, domestic violence, , female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and honor killings.
2. Sexual violence: It involves any form of unwelcome sexual behavior, such as , sexual assault, harassment, forced prostitution, trafficking or exploitation, and online abuse.
3. Psychological or emotional violence: This form of violence includes threats, intimidation, coercion, emotional manipulation, isolation, verbal abuse, stalking, or controlling behaviors that demean, belittle, or harm the victim emotionally.
4. Economic violence: It refers to the control or restriction of a victim's financial resources and autonomy, making them dependent on the abuser. This can involve economic exploitation, financial abuse, denial of access to education or employment opportunities, or preventing economic independence.
Gender-based violence is a global issue that violates human rights and has severe consequences for the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of survivors. It perpetuates gender inequality and discrimination, reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes and societal norms. Efforts to address gender-based violence involve raising awareness, implementing legal frameworks and policies, providing support services for survivors, and promoting gender equality and empowerment as a means to prevent and combat such violence.