Gender-Based Violence (GBV) – also Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) - is a form of violence that is directed against individuals on the basis of their gender or perceived gender. GBV can include a wide range of acts, such as physical, sexual, or psychological violence, as well as harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation or forced marriage. Gender-Based Violence is often perpetrated against girls and women, but can also affect boys and men, as well as those who identify as non-binary or gender non-conforming.
GBV is a serious human rights violation that can have devastating physical, emotional, and social consequences for survivors and their families. Gender-Based Violence is often rooted in gender inequality and discriminatory social norms that reinforce gender roles and stereotypes, and can be used as a tool of control and domination.
Efforts to address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence include prevention and response measures, such as providing support to survivors, ensuring access to justice, strengthening laws and policies, and promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. International organizations, governments, and non-governmental organizations are working to raise awareness of GBV, improve access to services for survivors, and promote a culture of gender equality and respect for human rights.
Gender-based violence is particularly acute during humanitarian crises, such as natural disasters, conflicts, and displacement, where people are at increased risk of experiencing violence and exploitation. Humanitarian emergencies often lead to a breakdown of law and order, which can result in perpetrators of GBV going unpunished. In many cases, armed groups use GBV as a weapon of war.