Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue experienced by millions of people worldwide, affecting individuals across age, race, economic status, and social background. GBV is rooted in gender inequality and manifests through physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. Although both men and women can experience GBV, it disproportionately affects women and girls. Despite increased awareness, GBV remains underreported, with many suffering in silence especially in Africa. This blog post explores the different forms of GBV, examines the global and African contexts, and highlights some ways we can combat it, with a spotlight on Amaan Africa HER ADVOCACY Workshop in commemoration of the UN Women 16 Days Activism against GBV in partnership with DAREM, FWID, GWI, Passion Collective, Vital Voices and Amaan Digital.
What is Gender-Based Violence?
GBV refers to any harmful act directed at someone because of their gender. It includes physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse, as well as harmful cultural practices. GBV can occur in homes, workplaces, and public spaces, with significant repercussions on individuals’ well-being and society as a whole.
Forms of GBV
- Physical Violence: Includes any form of physical assault, such as hitting, slapping, or other attacks that cause bodily harm.
- Sexual Violence: This includes unwelcome sexual advances, harassment, assault, and rape. Survivors often endure severe trauma, which can have long-lasting physical and emotional effects.
- Psychological and Emotional Violence: Emotional abuse includes manipulation, intimidation, threats, and verbal abuse, diminishing a person’s sense of self-worth and affecting their mental health.
- 4. Economic Violence: Economic abuse restricts a person’s financial independence by controlling their money, limiting employment, or withholding financial resources, often leaving survivors dependent and unable to escape harmful situations.
- 5. Harmful Cultural Practices: Practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage remain prevalent in some regions. These acts violate human rights and have severe physical and psychological consequences. Global and African Statistics on Gender-Based Violence GBV is a global issue affecting people and communities worldwide, but the impact is particularly profound in Africa.
Global Statistics
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1 in 3 women worldwide—about 736 million women—experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, cutting across all socioeconomic and cultural boundaries.
Domestic Violence: Nearly 38% of all female homicides globally are committed by intimate partners, highlighting the grave dangers that exist even within homes. Health Impact: Survivors of GBV frequently endure health complications such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and increased vulnerability to diseases.
Gender-Based Violence in Africa
Intimate Partner Violence: UN Women reports that 46% of African women have faced intimate partner violence, far higher than the global average. Economic dependency and limited access to legal resources are significant barriers for survivors seeking to escape abusive relationships. Harmful Practices: FGM and child marriage are still practiced in many African countries. Over 200 million girls and women in 30 countries, mainly in Africa, have experienced FGM, which leads to health risks and lifelong trauma.
Economic Impact
GBV places a financial strain on healthcare systems, reduces productivity, and hinders social development. A study in South Africa estimated that GBV costs the country between $2.4 billion and $5.8 billion annually—funds that could be redirected towards essential social services.
Spotlight on Amaan Africa Organization , Cameroon
Leading the Way in GBV Advocacy Among the many organizations fighting against GBV, Amaan Africa stands out for its dedication to achieve SDG5 by 2030
Amaan Africa will host the ‘HER ADVOCACY Workshop’ this year—a crucial event designed to empower GBV advocates to champion their rights and safety during the traditional UN Women 16 days Activism against GBV. This workshop will provide participants with the tools, resources, and support needed to stand up against GBV in their communities.
The workshop will also foster a space for survivors, activists, and allies to share their stories, build networks, and drive change together. By addressing the root causes of GBV and educating advocates on their rights, the ‘HER ADVOCACY Workshop’ aims to create ripple effects across African communities, promoting a culture of respect, support, and empowerment.
Additionally, the workshop will include a segment on Empowering Digital Skills for GBV Advocacy Using Canva, equipping advocates with the skills to create impactful, visually engaging materials that raise awareness and promote advocacy efforts. By harnessing digital tools like Canva, participants can better communicate their messages, creating powerful visuals that resonate with diverse audiences and spread awareness effectively.
How Can We Combat GBV?
1. Awareness and Education: Education and awareness are essential in the fight against GBV. By educating communities, breaking stereotypes, and encouraging open dialogue, we can promote understanding and combat the root causes of violence. Schools, community centers, and online platforms are powerful tools for raising awareness.
2. Support Systems and Safe Spaces: Survivors need safe, supportive environment, Counseling services, hotlines, and legal aid offer vital support, helping survivors regain stability and independence.
3. Empowerment Programs: Economic empowerment through job training, education, and financial support can equip survivors to rebuild their lives. Amaan Africa, ‘HER ADVOCACY Workshop,’ exemplify how community-led programs can make a lasting difference.
4. Policy and Legislative Advocacy: Strong laws and policies are essential in reducing GBV. Advocating for policy changes, ensuring fair legal treatment for survivors, and holding governments accountable are all crucial steps. Supporting local and regional campaigns can help enforce existing laws and advocate for additional protections.
5. Community Engagement: Ending GBV requires shifting cultural attitudes and challenging social norms that enable violence. Communities must work together to break down stereotypes, promote gender equality, and foster environments of mutual respect. Engaging men and boys as allies is crucial, as they play a vital role in reshaping gender dynamics and supporting survivors.
The Impact of Gender-Based Violence GBV doesn’t only affect individuals; it reverberates through families, communities, and entire societies. Survivors often deal with physical injuries, mental health challenges, and societal stigma, affecting their ability to lead fulfilling lives. Children exposed to GBV may suffer from developmental and emotional difficulties, and communities lose productivity, incurring significant economic costs as a results where they can heal and rebuild.
Eliminating gender-based violence is a collective responsibility that requires a commitment from individuals, communities, and organizations
. By supporting each other, educating future generations, and challenging harmful norms, we can build a society that values safety, dignity, and respect for all. Together, through initiatives like Amaan Africa’s ‘HER ADVOCACY Workshop,’ we can create lasting change, ensuring that future generations live in a world free from violence and fear. The time to act is now, and with sustained effort, we can help build a future without gender-based violence.
Are you passionate about making a change?
Are you a GENDER Student, a Graduate or an aspiring advocate aged 18-35? We have an incredible opportunity for you!
Amaan Africa in Partnership with DAREM and FWID brings to you HER ADVOCACY WORKSHOP at NO cost.
This exclusive 2-day workshop will equip you with the skills to create compelling content for SDG5 Advocacy using Canva.
Advocates are changing the narrative all around the world, you too CAN!
REGISTER NOW!
Fill the google form below and be 1 of the lucky Advocates to learn, network and share experiences with other Advocates on the 29th and 30th November 2024 at DAREM Organization in Buea , Cameroon.
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THANK YOU FOR READING
THULANI MOYO
SDG BLOGGER
Amaan Africa
Zimbabwe