Inspiration: What is Gender Based Violence?

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a common human rights violation, defined as violence directed against someone based on their gender or sex, resulting in physical, sexual, or psychological harm. It is most often perpetrated by men against women, girls, and vulnerable individuals, though men can also be victims.

Perpetrators can be non-partners (strangers, acquaintances, colleagues) or, more commonly, someone close to the victim. Interpersonal violence involves friends or family members, while intimate partner violence is inflicted by a lover, spouse, or ex-partner.

GBV encompasses several forms: Physical violence (intentional use of force or threats), sexual violence (forced or non-consensual sexual acts, including with those unable to consent due to age, illness, or intoxication, and sexual harassment), economic violence (denying access to money or financial independence), and emotional violence (verbal abuse, humiliation, controlling behavior). Emotional and economic violence, though often misunderstood, are as damaging as physical and sexual violence.

No matter who you are, where you live, or who is inflicting it, gender-based violence is never acceptable. These types of violence are frequently misunderstood or ignored, even by authorities.