Gender Based Violence

MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON THE HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE

Leave a Comment / Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Monday Health Burst /

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a grave human rights violation with profound and far-reaching effects on the health and well-being of individuals and communities. It manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm, stemming from entrenched gender norms and power imbalances. The impact of GBV extends beyond the immediate survivors, affecting public health systems, economic productivity, and societal stability.

The physical consequences of GBV are often severe and enduring. Survivors frequently suffer injuries such as fractures, bruises, burns, and, in cases of sexual violence, sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies, and complications like pelvic inflammatory disease and chronic pain. For pregnant women, GBV can lead to miscarriage, preterm labor, and low birth weight, posing risks to both maternal and child health. These physical effects often require extensive medical attention, straining healthcare resources.

An illustrative example is an intervention by the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), where a maid who was molested by her caregiver suffered severe damage to her genital organs. CFHI provided critical medical assistance, ensuring she received treatment until her full recovery. This case highlights the physical devastation of GBV and the vital role of timely medical intervention in mitigating long-term harm.

The psychological toll of GBV is equally devastating. Survivors commonly experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and, in many cases, suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The trauma inflicted by abuse often disrupts cognitive and emotional functioning, leading to difficulties in personal relationships, social interactions, and daily activities. For children exposed to GBV, the consequences are particularly alarming, as they may develop behavioral problems, emotional distress, and long-term mental health challenges that can persist into adulthood.

In addition to mental health impacts, GBV has dire effects on reproductive and sexual health. Survivors of sexual violence face heightened risks of infections, including HIV/AIDS, as well as unintended pregnancies and complications from unsafe abortions. The stigma associated with such violence often deters survivors from seeking necessary medical attention, exacerbating health problems, and deepening feelings of isolation and shame.

Beyond individual health outcomes, the public health implications of GBV are vast. Healthcare systems are often overwhelmed by the demand for services, including medical treatment and psychological support for survivors. Maternal mortality rates, the spread of sexually transmitted infections, and the intergenerational transmission of trauma further strain public health infrastructures.

The societal and economic costs of GBV are equally alarming. Survivors may lose their livelihoods due to physical or psychological impairments, contributing to decreased productivity and financial instability. This not only affects individuals and their families but also undermines national development, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. The economic burden of GBV, which includes healthcare costs, legal expenses, and lost workforce participation, highlights the urgency of addressing this pervasive issue.

To mitigate the impact of GBV, a multifaceted approach is essential. Governments must enforce robust legal frameworks to protect survivors and prosecute perpetrators, while healthcare providers must integrate GBV screening and survivor-centered care into their services. Community-level interventions are critical for challenging harmful gender norms and fostering awareness, creating an environment where GBV is recognized and condemned. Providing accessible support systems, such as counseling, safe shelters, and legal aid, is equally vital to helping survivors rebuild their lives.

The health impacts of GBV underscore its significance as a public health crisis that requires immediate and sustained action. Addressing the root causes of GBV and providing comprehensive care for survivors is not just a moral imperative but a societal necessity. By prioritizing the fight against GBV, societies can promote health, equality, and well-being for all, paving the way for a more just and equitable future.

Reference:

Gender based violence is a public health issue: using a health systems approach

 

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON EMPATHY IN ACTION: MENS’S ROLE IN ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Speak Wednesday /

On the occasion of International Men’s Day yesterday, we are reminded of the transformative power men hold in eliminating violence against women. This issue impacts one in three women globally, according to UN Women, and addressing it requires an inclusive, empathetic approach.

Violence is Not Inherent—It’s Learned

Research by World Health Organization (WHO) shows that violence is often learned during childhood, and men who grow up in violent environments are statistically more likely to perpetuate such behavior later in life.WHO emphasises that children exposed to abuse are at a greater risk of becoming perpetrators of violence in adulthood.

Anthony Keedi, from the ABAAD Resource Centre for Gender Equality, emphasizes that violence is not a natural trait in men but a learned behavior shaped by societal expectations. Transforming this requires teaching men that masculinity includes caregiving and emotional expression, fostering respect instead of dominance.

Pathway to Change

According to the MenEngage Alliance, embracing positive masculinity is a crucial step. Men must reject harmful stereotypes that equate strength with control and instead model behaviors rooted in empathy and equality. When men publicly advocate for these changes, they inspire others in their communities to shift perspectives.​

Also, silence is complicity. Men have the privilege to challenge misogynistic behaviors and advocate for change in their communities. From workplaces to social circles, speaking up fosters new norms where violence is intolerable.

Ending violence against women isn’t just about protecting women; it’s about building a society where everyone thrives. When men actively participate in this cause, they not only support gender equality but also unlock greater emotional freedom for themselves. A world free of violence benefits all genders, fostering healthier families and communities.

Men have the power to redefine their roles in relationships and society at large. By leading with empathy, they can bridge the gap between acknowledging the issue and being part of the solution.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EmpathyInAction #EndViolence #InternationalMensDay #GenderEquality

References:

  1. MenEngage Alliance
  2. OHCHR
  3. UN Women
  4. World Health Organization (WHO)

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SPEAK WEDNESDASY ON PROTECTING OUR FUTURE: COMBATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO /

Gender-based violence (GBV) leaves lifelong scars, particularly when it affects young people. Children and adolescents worldwide experience violence in environments meant to be safe—homes, schools, and communities. Addressing this problem early in life is essential, as GBV in childhood not only affects immediate well-being but also shapes a young person’s future.

Adolescent girls are especially vulnerable to forms of GBV like early marriage and sexual violence. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that one in four girls will experience sexual violence before reaching adulthood, often in environments where cultural norms uphold gender inequalities and prioritize male dominance. UNICEF adds that boys also experience GBV in unique ways, facing pressures to adopt aggressive behaviour in alignment with rigid views of masculinity. These pressures often lead boys to both experience and perpetuate violence later in life, continuing a cycle that affects future generations.

Protecting children from GBV is an ongoing effort that requires commitment from everyone—parents, educators, community leaders, and policymakers. Addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in children and adolescents requires a combination of education, community support, and legal protections. Education in schools and communities about respect, equality, and personal rights is crucial. By raising awareness on GBV prevention and empowering young people to understand their rights, communities can help prevent violence before it begins. Together, we can build a future where young people are free to grow up in safety and pursue their potential. Ending GBV among youth is not just about safety; it’s about creating a foundation of respect and equality that will shape the generations to come.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndChildViolence #ProtectOurFuture #StopGBV #YouthSafety #BreakTheCycle #GenderEquality ##GenderJustice

 

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Preventing Violence Against Children and Adolescents, WHO, 2023
  2. UNICEF. Safe to Learn: Protecting Children in Schools, UNICEF, 2023
  3. UNICEF Nigeria. Child Protection Programs and Gender-Based Violence, UNICEF Nigeria, 2023

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON BREAKING THE CYCLE: HOW POVERTY FUELS GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO /

In communities all over the world, the cycle of poverty and violence against women and girls has persisted for generations. Imagine a young girl growing up in a neighbourhood where money is tight, education is scarce, and opportunities are limited. She learns early that life is about survival, not dreams, and violence is part of her reality. Gender-based violence is an ugly reality that millions face daily, but poverty often goes unseen as the engine driving much of it.

Poverty fuels gender-based violence in numerous ways. For instance, economic dependence on a partner often leads women to stay in abusive relationships they might otherwise leave if they had the financial means to support themselves and their children. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), financial instability is a key driver that keeps women in cycles of dependency, as their limited options make it difficult to leave even dangerous situations. When only one partner controls finances, it’s easier for abusive patterns to take hold, creating an environment where the abused partner feels trapped.

The lack of support systems means that leaving a dangerous relationship could mean facing hunger and homelessness. Without an education or job skills, the idea of living independently seems impossible. This economic dependence creates a prison for many women, making them feel that they have no choice but to stay, even when they are in physical or emotional danger.

Beyond dependence, financial stress and scarcity can lead to heightened domestic tensions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), poverty creates chronic stress, which often escalates into conflict and even violence within homes. Recent findings from the WHO highlights that in recent years, economic instability exacerbated by inflation, post-pandemic recovery issues, and widespread financial crises, has intensified this issue, particularly in impoverished regions. As economic conditions worsen, the vulnerabilities of women in abusive situations grow, as many find it even harder to escape due to financial dependencies.

Ultimately, addressing gender-based violence in the context of poverty is not only a matter of justice for women and girls but a necessity for society. When communities tolerate violence, they also waste the potential of women, who could otherwise contribute to economic and social development.

By addressing root causes through education, economic empowerment, legal protections, and community programs, we take steps to end the cycle of violence that keeps women trapped in poverty.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday # #EndGBV #GenderEquality #BreakTheCycle #PovertyAndViolence #WomenEmpowerment #EconomicEmpowerment

 

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ENDING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE TO BREAK THE POVERTY TRAP

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence (GBV) isn’t just a violation of human rights—it’s a barrier that keeps women trapped in poverty. Women and girls, disproportionately affected by violence, often face disrupted education, loss of employment, and health complications, locking them into cycles of financial dependence and limiting their potential. Poverty, in turn, makes it harder for them to escape abusive situations.

Violence against women costs the world over $5.8 trillion annually in lost productivity and healthcare expenses, according to the World Bank. This shows that GBV isn’t just a personal or family problem—it’s an economic issue that holds entire communities back.

Education and economic empowerment are crucial to breaking this cycle. Women with access to education are more likely to gain employment and become financially independent, enabling them to leave abusive situations. When girls stay in school and women gain financial independence, their chances of being stuck in violent relationships drop significantly.

However, it’s not just about helping survivors. Governments must strengthen laws to protect women, and society needs to shift cultural norms that normalize violence. This includes engaging men and boys in discussions about healthy masculinity, gender equality, and non-violence.

Ending GBV is essential to ending poverty. By tackling violence and empowering women, we can break the chains of both abuse and poverty, creating more equitable societies where everyone can thrive.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndGBV #WomenEmpowerment #EqualityForAll #GenderEquality #GenderBias

 

**References:**

– World Bank. “Violence Against Women and Girls.”

– United Nations. “Ending Gender-Based Violence.”

– Heise, Lori. “A Global Review of Gender-Based Violence.”

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence (GBV) has severe mental health consequences, leaving lasting emotional scars that go beyond physical harm. Survivors of GBV, including intimate partner violence and sexual assault, are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. According to the World Health Organization, women who experience violence are twice as likely to suffer from depression. Feelings of shame, fear, and isolation often compound their trauma, leading to further mental health deterioration.

Moreover, women often face gender bias when seeking mental health care, leading to their trauma being overlooked or misinterpreted. This can delay treatment or cause women to avoid seeking help altogether. A study by García-Moreno et al. (2015) found that healthcare systems frequently fail to provide adequate support for women experiencing GBV, particularly in addressing their mental health needs. This bias exacerbates the stigma surrounding both mental health and gender-based violence, leaving many women without the resources to heal.

Ending GBV is not only crucial for women’s physical safety but also for their mental well-being. By eradicating violence against women, we eliminate a major source of trauma that fuels mental health disorders like depression and PTSD. Ensuring women live free from violence is the first step toward ending the mental health crises caused by GBV. When societies address the root causes of GBV and promote trauma-informed care, women can begin to heal, both physically and mentally. Ending GBV is, therefore, a vital step toward improving women’s overall mental health and creating a world where they can thrive.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndGBV #MentalHealthMatters #SupportSurvivors #BreakTheSilence #GenderEquality #GenderBias

REFERENCES:

1. García-Moreno, C., Hegarty, K., d’Oliveira, A. F., Koziol-McLain, J., Colombini, M., & Feder, G. (2015). The health-systems response to violence against women. The Lancet, 385(9977), 1567-1579.

 

2. World Health Organization. (2017). Violence against women. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE ROLE OF LITERACY IN COMBATING GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Gender Based Violence, Girl Education, Speak Wednesday, Women Education /

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious issue affecting millions of women worldwide. It includes physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological harm, often linked to deep-rooted gender inequalities. While legal reforms and social programs are crucial in tackling GBV, one of the most powerful tools in this fight is literacy. Improving literacy, especially among women, can play a critical role in reducing GBV and addressing the broader issue of gender bias.
How Literacy Can Help Reduce Gender-Based Violence

1. Awareness and Empowerment
Literacy gives women the ability to access information about their rights and the resources available to help them. Many women who experience violence are unaware of their legal protections or how to seek help. By being able to read and write, women can better understand their options and take steps to escape abusive situations. Literacy also provides a sense of confidence and self-worth, helping women stand up against violence and assert their rights.

2. Shifting Cultural Norms
Cultural attitudes that reinforce gender inequality are a major driver of GBV. Literacy plays a role in challenging these harmful norms. Educated women are more likely to question practices such as child marriage, domestic abuse, and gender discrimination. Men who are educated also tend to have more respect for women and are less likely to engage in violent behaviour. In societies where literacy programs are introduced, there is often a noticeable shift toward gender equality and lower rates of GBV.

3. Economic Independence
One of the reasons many women remain in abusive relationships is their financial dependence on their abusers. Literacy can change this by improving women’s access to better job opportunities and giving them the skills to manage their own finances. When women can earn an income and support themselves, they are less vulnerable to violence and more capable of leaving abusive situations.

4. Creating Safe Spaces for Women
Literacy programs often serve as community hubs where women can come together to learn and share experiences. These programs can also be platforms to discuss sensitive issues like GBV in a safe, supportive environment. By raising awareness of GBV and providing practical solutions, such as legal advice and access to shelters, these programs help women seek the support they need.
Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write—it is a tool for empowerment, economic independence, and social change. When women are literate, they are better equipped to challenge violence, defend their rights, and break free from abusive relationships. As a key part of the fight against gender-based violence, literacy programs offer a path to safety and equality for women everywhere.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References:
1. World Health Organization (2021). Violence against women prevalence estimates. Available at: https://www.who.int
2. UNESCO (2020). Education transforms lives. Available at: https://en.unesco.org/themes/education

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THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING GENDER BIAS: WHY LITERACY MATTERS FOR EVERY GIRL

Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender Based Violence, Girl Education, Speak Wednesday /

Education is a game-changer, especially for girls. Across the world, millions of girls are held back by gender bias, often missing out on school because of outdated beliefs that prioritize boys’ education. However, the reality is that when girls receive an education, it not only transforms their own lives but also positively impacts their families and entire communities.

Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write; it is a gateway to empowerment and independence. Educated girls are more likely to delay marriage, have healthier children, and earn better incomes. According to UNICEF, when a girl is educated, she has the power to transform her life and lift her community out of poverty.

Moreover, educated women are more likely to advocate for their rights and challenge harmful gender norms. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that mothers with an education are better equipped to keep their families healthy, which means fewer child deaths and stronger communities.
Schools can be the front line in the fight against gender bias. Education can challenge stereotypes by teaching both boys and girls the importance of equality and respect. When children learn about gender equality early on, they grow up to be adults who value and promote it. -UNESCO

Every girl deserves the chance to learn. When we invest in girls’ education, we invest in a brighter, more equal future for everyone. It’s time to break down the barriers and make sure every girl, everywhere, gets the education she deserves.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References
• UNICEF. (2022). Why Girls’ Education Matters.
• WHO. (2021). Women’s Health and Education.
• UNESCO. (2020). COVID-19 and Education: The Road to Recovery.
• UNESCO. (2019). Gender Equality in Education: A Key to Social Progress.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ARTICLE ON STRATEGIES FOR REPORTING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence is a grave violation of human rights that affects predominantly women and girls. Reporting GBV is crucial in obtaining justice, support, and protection. However, many victims are often unsure about how to report their experiences or which authorities to approach. This lack of knowledge can hinder access to necessary resources and justice. Understanding the various strategies and resources available for reporting GBV in Nigeria is essential for empowering survivors and ensuring they receive the support they need.

Key Reporting Channels and Resources

Legal Assistance

  • Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP): This law provides a legal framework for addressing various forms of GBV. Survivors should seek legal assistance to understand their rights under the VAPP Act. 
  • NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons): NAPTIP provides legal and rehabilitative support for survivors of human trafficking and GBV. They have a dedicated helpline (0703 0000 203) for reporting incidents.

Authorities in Charge

  • Nigerian Police Force: Survivors can report GBV incidents to the nearest police station. The police are obligated to investigate and provide protection to survivors. Specialized units, such as the Gender Desk in police stations, are trained to handle GBV cases sensitively.
  • Ministry of Women Affairs: This ministry is crucial in coordinating responses to GBV and supporting survivors. It collaborates with various national and international partners to improve reporting mechanisms and survivor support services.

Helplines and Emergency Services

  • National GBV Helpline: The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, supported by the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, has established the ReportGBV.ng platform. This includes a 24/7 helpline (0800 3333 3333) where survivors can report incidents and receive immediate support​ (ReportGBV)​​ (Spotlight Initiative)​.
  • Emergency Services: In urgent situations, survivors should contact local police or emergency medical services. It’s crucial to have emergency contacts readily available.

Supportive Organizations

  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Numerous NGOs offer legal aid and advocacy for women and girls facing violence. They also conduct awareness programs to educate the public about GBV and its impact. (ReportGBV)​​ Survivors can approach these organizations for help navigating the legal system, understanding their rights, counselling, and legal assistance.

Reporting GBV is essential for accessing justice and support. Survivors in Nigeria have various channels and resources available, from helplines and legal assistance to supportive organizations and online platforms. By leveraging these resources and addressing the barriers to reporting, we can create a safer environment for all and work towards eradicating GBV. 

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON HOW TRADITIONAL GENDER ROLES CONTRIBUTE TO A CULTURE OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence is a pervasive global issue rooted in entrenched social norms and power structures. gender roles play an important role in perpetuating a culture where violence against women and girls is normalized, tolerated, and even condoned.

At the heart of traditional gender roles lies the concept of patriarchy, where men hold primary power and authority while women are relegated to subordinate positions. Patriarchal societies uphold rigid gender norms that dictate women’s subservience, passivity, and dependence on men. This power dynamic not only reinforces the belief that men are entitled to control women but also justifies violence as a means of asserting dominance and maintaining control.

According to UN Women, patriarchal norms perpetuate violence against women by fostering a culture of impunity for perpetrators and silencing survivors. The prioritization of male honour over the rights and well-being of women and girls further exacerbates the prevalence of violence in such societies.

From a young age, girls are socialized into prescribed gender roles that dictate acceptable behaviours, interests, and aspirations based on their gender. UNICEF emphasizes that gender stereotypes perpetuate harmful attitudes and beliefs that contribute to the normalization of violence against women and girls. Boys are conditioned to equate masculinity with dominance, aggression, and control, while girls are taught to prioritize compliance, submission, and caretaking roles.

These gendered expectations create a fertile ground for the justification and perpetration of violence. Boys who don’t fit the mould of the stereotypical masculine may become the target of bullying and social exclusion, which makes them turn to violence as a way to maintain their masculinity and social standing. Similarly, girls who challenge gender norms may face backlash and punishment, further reinforcing the cycle of violence and oppression.

In conclusion, traditional gender roles play a significant role in perpetuating a culture of violence against women and girls by reinforcing patriarchal power dynamics, perpetuating harmful stereotypes, exacerbating economic disparities, and intersecting with other forms of discrimination. It is crucial to question and alter these deeply ingrained gender norms, empower women and girls, and advance gender equality at all societal levels to effectively confront and prevent violence.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #GenderRoles #StopGBV #StopGenderStereotype #Girlsrights #WomenRights #genderequality #genderbias

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