Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is one of the most pervasive human rights violations globally, affecting millions of individuals—predominantly women and girls—across different cultures, communities, and countries. At its core, GBV stems from the systemic imbalance of power between genders, manifesting in violence intended to assert control, subjugation, or harm based on gender identity or roles. Understanding what GBV entails, its various forms, and its profound impact on society is crucial in dismantling the structures that allow it to persist.

Defining Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Gender-Based Violence refers to any harmful act perpetrated against an individual due to their gender. While both men and women can be victims, women and girls are disproportionately affected. GBV includes physical, emotional, sexual, and economic violence, rooted in gender inequality, abuse of power, and harmful social norms. It is often enforced through traditional practices, cultural beliefs, and systemic discrimination, further exacerbating the vulnerability of marginalized groups. GBV is not limited to domestic spaces but can also occur in public spheres, workplaces, schools, and conflict zones. Its reach is extensive, crossing borders and societal structures, making it a global crisis that requires multi-layered intervention.

The Forms of Gender-Based Violence

GBV manifests in several forms, some of which are widely recognized, while others may be more subtle or normalized within specific cultural contexts. Here are some of the most common forms:

1. Physical Violence

Physical violence is the most visible form of GBV and includes acts such as hitting, beating, kicking, and burning. It often occurs in domestic relationships but is also common in public settings. Intimate partner violence (IPV), which includes physical abuse by a spouse or partner, is one of the most prevalent forms of GBV, affecting millions of women globally. The consequences of physical violence can be immediate, resulting in injuries or long-term health problems like chronic pain, disabilities, or even death.

2. Sexual Violence

Sexual violence refers to any sexual act committed against a person without their consent. This includes rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and coercion. Sexual violence can occur in various contexts, such as within intimate relationships, during conflict, or in workplaces. It not only inflicts physical harm but also has profound psychological and emotional effects, often leading to long-lasting trauma. Sexual violence also encompasses harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage, where the bodily autonomy of women and girls is violated.

3. Emotional and Psychological Violence

Emotional and psychological violence involves behaviors that undermine a person’s sense of self-worth, mental health, and emotional well-being. This type of violence can include constant criticism, humiliation, intimidation, threats, and isolation. It is often a tactic used in abusive relationships to control or manipulate the victim. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, leading to severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal thoughts.

4. Economic Violence

Economic or financial abuse occurs when the perpetrator exerts control over the victim by restricting access to financial resources, education, or employment opportunities. This type of violence aims to make the victim economically dependent, ensuring that they are unable to leave the abusive relationship or improve their situation. Economic violence can also include withholding money, preventing the victim from working, or sabotaging their employment. Financial dependency often traps women in abusive situations, perpetuating the cycle of violence.

5. Cultural and Social Violence

Cultural and social violence includes harmful practices and societal norms that reinforce gender inequality and perpetuate violence against women. This can include practices such as honor killings, forced marriages, bride kidnapping, and dowry-related violence. Additionally, societal attitudes that blame victims of GBV or trivialize the violence contribute to its normalization. In some communities, GBV is justified under the guise of "tradition" or "culture," making it difficult for victims to seek help or challenge the status quo.

6. Human Trafficking and Exploitation

Human trafficking, particularly for sexual exploitation, is another severe form of GBV. Women and girls are often trafficked into prostitution, forced labor, or other exploitative situations. Trafficking violates numerous human rights, including the right to security, freedom, and dignity. It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, such as refugees, migrants, and individuals living in poverty, who are coerced or deceived into exploitative situations.