Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Gender-based violence (GBV) includes physical, sexual, emotional and psychological, economic and educational abuse, coercion, and threats directed at an individual based on their biological sex or gender identity. GBV undermines the autonomy, dignity, health (mental and physical), and security of its victims; it also has devastating social and economic effects on communities and is a major public health problem and impediment to gender equality. Sexual violence can result in serious sexual and reproductive health consequences, such as unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, sexually transmitted infections (including HIV), and traumatic fistula. Women, girls, young people, and other marginalized individuals are particularly vulnerable—indeed, one in three women globally will experience GBV during their lifetimes.

EngenderHealth works to strengthen response mechanisms for sexual violence in clinical settings and to prevent all forms of violence at the community level, as part of our commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender equality. Our approach to preventing and addressing GBV encompasses engaging communities, including men and boys, to transform harmful gender norms; training healthcare providers and facilities to better deliver survivor-centered GBV services; and supporting improved multi-sectoral coordination of GBV prevention and response. Learn more about GBV in our language guide.