Gender-based violence (GBV) is a widespread problem that affects individuals in all communities regardless of age, socio-economic status or cultural background.
Gender-based violence is defined as harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender and encompasses a range of abuses, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. This societal scourge disproportionately affects women and girls, although men and boys can also fall victim.
The persistence of gender-based violence reflects deep-seated inequalities and social norms that prioritize patriarchal power structures, making it a critical human rights issue.
Gender-based violence often stems from ingrained cultural norms, traditional gender roles and unequal power dynamics. In many societies, women are expected to be submissive, while men are seen as dominant, a constant cycle of control and abuse.
Financial dependency is another influencing factor; women without financial independence may feel trapped in abusive relationships. Furthermore, society’s tolerance of violence, fueled by a weak legal framework and insufficient law enforcement, allows perpetrators to operate with impunity. Poverty, substance abuse and lack of education further exacerbate the problem, creating an environment ripe for violence.
Gender-based violence takes many forms, all of which leave lasting scars on individuals and communities. Physical violence, such as domestic violence and intimate partner violence, is one of the most visible forms. Sexual violence, including rape, harassment and human trafficking, undermines victims’ dignity and self-determination. Psychological violence, which is often less recognized, undermines self-esteem and mental well-being. Economic violence, such as withholding financial resources or limiting employment opportunities, reinforces dependence and incapacity. Each form of violence perpetuates a cycle of trauma that often affects multiple generations.
The consequences of gender-based violence are profound and far-reaching. Physical effects on victims include injuries, disfigurement and in severe cases death. Psychologically, survivors often experience depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Socially, they may face stigma, isolation and loss of economic opportunities. Communities also bear the burden of GBV due to increased health care costs, reduced labor productivity and unstable social cohesion. In areas where gender-based violence is common, the fear of violence limits individual freedom, especially women’s participation in education and public life.
Combating gender-based violence is full of challenges. Cultural taboos and victim blaming prevent survivors from reporting abuse, leaving many cases unreported. Inadequate funding and resources for shelters, counseling services and legal aid exacerbate the problem. In addition, justice systems in many regions are often slow or biased and unable to provide justice to survivors. Gender bias in law enforcement and the lack of representation of women in leadership positions continue to hinder progress.
Community involvement is essential to combating gender-based violence. Education plays a key role in changing mindsets, as information campaigns challenge harmful stereotypes and promote gender equality.
Community leaders, religious figures and local organizations must take a stand against violence and advocate for zero tolerance. Empowering survivors with access to health care, counseling and financial opportunities is equally important. Legal reforms and strict enforcement are needed to deport the perpetrators and ensure justice.
Combating gender-based violence requires joint efforts from governments, civil society and individuals. Policies that promote gender equality, such as women’s access to education and working life, can help dismantle the structures that sustain gender-based violence. Men and boys must also act as allies, learn to challenge toxic masculinity and support equality. Ultimately, addressing gender-based violence does not only mean protecting the victims, but also promoting a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live with dignity and safety.
Gender-based violence is a violation of basic human rights that requires urgent attention. By addressing its root causes, supporting survivors and promoting 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 remains one of the most significant human rights violations in all societies. Violence is violence against a person because of his 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 is widely recognized that the majority of gender-based violence is perpetrated against women and girls by men. However, using a “gender-based” perspective is important because 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 crimes against women.
- Abubakar Harun is in the Department of Mass Communication, Borno State University