By Mounira SADDI

What is gender-based violence?

GBV is an act of violence that relies on unequal power relations between genders. It can target women, men, or non-binary individuals, but it disproportionately affects women and girls due to structural inequalities rooted in society. GBV includes acts causing verbal, physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm.

Types of gender-based violence

Here are the main forms of GBV:

• Verbal Violence: Includes insults, criticisms, hate speech, and mockery.
• Physical Violence: Includes hitting, injuries, and torture. Examples include domestic violence and female genital mutilation (FGM).
• Sexual Violence: Forced sexual acts, harassment, or exploitation like rape or trafficking.
• Psychological Violence: Acts causing fear, shame, or emotional stress like threats or humiliation.
• Economic Violence: Deprivation of financial resources, preventing access to employment, etc.
• Cultural or Societal Violence: Harmful norms or traditions, such as denying education for girls or early marriages.

Frequently Asked Questions about GBV

• What are the causes of GBV? Gender inequalities, discriminatory social norms, and weak legal systems.
• What are the signs of GBV? Isolation, fear, depression, and unexplained injuries.
• How can I help a victim of GBV? Listen without judgment, encourage seeking professional help, and respect their pace.
• What should I do if I witness GBV? Intervene if safe, document evidence, and report to authorities.
• Are there laws against GBV? Yes, but enforcement is a challenge in many areas.
• Why is it important to combat GBV? It perpetuates poverty, limits opportunities, and hinders development.

Resources and Assistance

If you or someone you know is a victim of GBV, contact emergency services or organizations such as:

• Victim Support Centers
• National helplines against violence
• International organizations such as UN Women or Human Rights Watch

Conclusion

In conclusion, better understanding gender-based violence in all its forms is an essential step in combating its multiple manifestations. Raising awareness, promoting values of respect and equality, and strengthening laws and support systems are key to creating a more just and safe society for all.

Together, we can break the silence and combat gender-based violence.