Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue affecting individuals across all communities, irrespective of age, socioeconomic status, or cultural background.
Defined as harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender, Gender-based Violence encompasses a range of abuses, including physical, emotional, sexual, and economic violence. This societal scourge disproportionately affects women and girls, though men and boys can also be victims.
The persistence of Gender-based Violence reflects deep-rooted inequalities and social norms that prioritise patriarchal power structures, making it a critical human rights issue.
Gender-based Violence often stems from entrenched cultural norms, traditional gender roles, and unequal power dynamics. In many communities, women are expected to be submissive, while men are regarded as dominant, perpetuating cycles of control and abuse.
Economic dependency is another contributing factor; women without financial independence may feel trapped in abusive relationships. Moreover, societal tolerance for violence, fuelled by weak legal frameworks and inadequate enforcement of laws, allows perpetrators to act with impunity. Poverty, substance abuse, and lack of education further exacerbate the problem, creating an environment ripe for violence.
Gender-based Violence manifests in various forms, all of which leave lasting scars on individuals and communities. Physical violence, such as domestic abuse and intimate partner violence, is one of the most visible forms. Sexual violence, including rape, harassment, and trafficking, undermines the dignity and autonomy of victims. Psychological abuse, often less recognised, erodes self-esteem and mental well-being. Economic violence, such as withholding financial resources or restricting employment opportunities, reinforces dependency and disempowerment. Each form of violence perpetuates cycles of trauma, often affecting multiple generations.
The consequences of Gender-based Violence are profound and far-reaching. For victims, the physical effects include injuries, disabilities, and, in severe cases, death. Psychologically, survivors often experience depression, anxiety, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Socially, they may face stigmatisation, isolation, and a loss of economic opportunities. Communities bear the brunt of GBV as well, with increased healthcare costs, reduced workforce productivity, and destabilised social cohesion. In regions where Gender-based Violence is widespread, the fear of violence limits individuals’ freedom, particularly women’s participation in education and public life.
Addressing Gender-based Violence is fraught with challenges. Cultural taboos and victim-blaming discourage survivors from reporting abuse, leaving many cases unrecorded. Insufficient funding and resources for shelters, counselling services, and legal aid exacerbate the problem. Additionally, judicial systems in many regions are often slow or biased, failing to deliver justice for survivors. Gender bias in law enforcement and a lack of female representation in leadership roles further hinder progress.
Community involvement is essential to tackling Gender-based Violence. Education plays a critical role in shifting mindsets, with awareness campaigns challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting gender equality.
Community leaders, religious figures, and local organisations must take a stand against violence, advocating for zero tolerance. Empowering survivors through access to healthcare, counselling, and economic opportunities is equally important. Legal reforms, coupled with strict enforcement, are needed to deter perpetrators and ensure justice.
The fight against Gender-based Violence requires collective effort from governments, civil society, and individuals. Policies promoting gender equality, such as access to education and employment for women, can help dismantle the structures that sustain Gender-based Violence. Men and boys must also be engaged as allies, learning to challenge toxic masculinity and support equality. Ultimately, addressing Gender-based Violence is not only about protecting victims but also about fostering a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live with dignity and safety.
Gender-based violence is a violation of fundamental human rights that calls for urgent attention. By addressing its root causes, supporting survivors, and fostering equality, communities can break the cycle of violence and pave the way for a safer and more inclusive future.
It is a phenomenon deeply rooted in gender inequality, and continues to be one of the most notable human rights violations within all societies. It is violence is violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience gender-based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls.
Gender-based violence and violence against women are terms that are often used interchangeably as it has been widely acknowledged that most gender-based violence is inflicted on women and girls, by men. However, using the ‘gender-based’ aspect is important as it highlights the fact that many forms of violence against women are rooted in power inequalities between women and men. The terms are used interchangeably throughout EIGE’s work, reflecting the disproportionate number of these particular crimes against women.
- Abubakar Harun is of the Mass Communication Department, Borno State University
