Gender-Based Violence

Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Gender-Based Violence, often called GBV, is any harm, abuse, or violence directed at someone because of their gender.

GBV affects women and girls the most, but men, boys, and people with disabilities can also experience it.

In many communities, GBV is hidden because of fear, shame, pressure from family, or lack of support. But violence is never “normal,” even when culture or tradition tries to excuse it.

Everyone deserves safety, dignity, and respect.

Types of Gender-Based Violence

GBV is not only physical violence.

It can include:

• Physical Violence
• Hitting
• Slapping
• Beating
• Kicking
• Burning
• Physical punishment
• Sexual Violence
• Rape
• Forced sex in marriage or relationships
• Sexual harassment
• Forced touching
• Sexual exploitation
• Sharing intimate images without consent
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse
• Insults
• Threats
• Humiliation
• Controlling behavior
• Constant fear or intimidation

This type of abuse can deeply affect mental health.

• Economic Abuse
• Controlling someone’s money
• Preventing someone from working
• Taking earnings unfairly
• Forcing dependence
• Digital or Online Abuse
• Cyberbullying
• Threatening messages
• Sharing private photos
• Online stalking
• Phone tracking without consent
• Common Signs of GBV

Someone experiencing GBV may:

• Suddenly become withdrawn
• Fear their partner or family member
• Have unexplained injuries
• Avoid school or work
• Seem anxious or depressed
• Lose confidence
• Become isolated from friends

Children and teenagers may also:

• Struggle in school
• Become unusually quiet
• Fear certain adults
• Show emotional distress
• GBV in African Communities

GBV can happen:

• At home
• In schools
• At work
• Online
• In churches or community spaces
• In relationships and marriages

Some harmful beliefs still contribute to GBV:

• “A man must control the household.”
• “Family matters should stay private.”
• “Women should endure abuse.”
• “Boys should not cry or report abuse.”

These beliefs protect violence instead of protecting people.

Violence Is Never Your Fault

A person is never responsible for being abused because of:

• What they wore
• Where they were
• Their relationship status
• Their disability
• Their age
• Their behavior online

Responsibility always belongs to the abuser.

GBV and Young People

Young girls and boys may face:

• Pressure from older partners
• Sexual exploitation
• Forced relationships
• Abuse in schools
• Online grooming
• Early marriage

Young people deserve protection and safe support systems.

GBV and Disabilities

People with disabilities often face higher risk because:

• They may depend on caregivers
• Reporting systems may not be accessible
• Communities may not believe them
• They can become isolated

Support services must include accessible reporting and care.

What To Do If You Experience GBV

If you are in immediate danger:

• Move to a safe place if possible
• Contact trusted people
• Seek emergency medical help

You can also:

• Report to police
• Visit a clinic or hospital
• Speak to a counselor
• Contact a GBV support organization
• Why Medical Help Matters Quickly

After sexual violence, medical care is very important.

Health workers can help with:

• HIV prevention medicine (PEP)
• Emergency contraception
• STI treatment
• Injury care
• Pregnancy support
• Counseling

PEP works best within 72 hours after possible HIV exposure.

Confidential Reporting

Many survivors fear reporting because of shame or fear of exposure.

Confidential reporting means:

• Your information should be protected
• Health workers and counselors should respect privacy
• You should not be publicly exposed or mocked

No one should force a survivor to speak publicly.

Supporting Someone Experiencing GBV

If someone opens up to you:

• Listen calmly
• Believe them
• Avoid blaming questions
• Help them find support

Helpful responses:

• “I’m sorry this happened.”
• “You did not deserve this.”
• “How can I support you?”
• Harmful Responses to Avoid

Avoid saying:

• “Why didn’t you leave?”
• “Maybe you provoked them.”
• “Keep quiet for the family.”

These responses can cause more trauma.

GBV and Mental Health

Violence can affect:

• Sleep
• Confidence
• School performance
• Relationships
• Emotional wellbeing

Survivors may experience:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fear
• Trauma
• Isolation

Mental health support is important too.

Your Rights

Everyone has the right to:

• Live free from violence
• Seek protection
• Access healthcare
• Report abuse safely
• Be treated with dignity
• Receive confidential support
• Where To Find Help

Support may be available from:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Police Victim Support Units
• Social workers
• School counselors
• Trusted community organizations
• Women’s rights groups
• Child protection services

If local services exist in your area, include emergency numbers inside the app for quick access.

Important Reminder

Abuse often grows in silence.

Seeking help is not weakness. Protecting yourself or supporting someone else can save a life.