Actual or threatened physical, sexual and psychological violence occurring within the family or in the community.
Sexual and other forms of gender based violence in crisis
Sexual and other forms of gender based violence are increasingly reported in situations of complex emergencies (e.g. armed conflict) The term sexual and other forms of sexual and gender based violence comprises not only rape and attempted rape, but also sexual abuse, forced early marriage, domestic violence, marital rape.
Why is there GBV?
Gender inequality and male dominant society
Discrimination
Breakdown of traditional social systems
Family separation – especially children and females
Less community support due to separation
Dependence on others for survival
Disruption of health systems
Problems in accessing secondary care level facilities in regard to managing physical and psychological problems faced by women and children
Most common form of Violence against women is that performed by a husband or male partner. This type of violence is frequently invisible since it happens behind closed doors, and effective when legal system and cultural norms do not treat this as a crime, but rather as ‘private’ family matter, or a normal part of life.
Domestic abuse occurs when one person in the intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate and control the other person. An abuser does not play fair. He or she uses guilt, fear, shame or intimidation to wear you down and gain complete power/ control over your relationship.It may threaten you, hurt you or do same to your family and loved ones around you.
When physical violence is also used it is called domestic violence.
Violence is the most direct form in which men can and are using their power over Women.
Emotional/ Psychological abuse;
Violence can be verbal or emotional. Therefore calling some one derogatory names or telling them they are stupid is a violent act, which can hurt as much as physical attack. Eg.Verbal (yelling, name calling, blaming, shaming/humiliating and threats to kill/harm you/children or family)
Non verbal (isolation, intimidation, controlling behavior/ dominance)
“Aims to reduce your feelings of self worth and independence”
Physical abuse;
Use of physical force (hitting, grabbing, choking, throwing objects, assault with weapon)
Sexual abuse;
A situation in which you are forced to participate in unwanted, unsafe or degrading sexual activity
Economic/ financial abuse;
Controlling finances
Withholding money
Giving only an allowance
Making you account for every penny spent
Exploiting assets for personal gain / use
Withholding basic necessities for you and children (food, clothes, medication and shelter)
Preventing you from working or choosing a career
Few women suffer from gender based violence Truth – Many women do not know the services available for action against gender based violence. They are often afraid and have no access to money or transport. There are many women who live in fear.
Sexual and GBV includes only physical abuse Truth – Mental abuse such as being told you are ugly, stupid or useless and being denied money also comes under gender based violence. Mental abuse leaves no bruising but is as terrifying and damaging as physical violence
Domestic violence only affects certain kinds of people Truth – Women of all races, cultures and religions are affected.
Violence is just a private family matter Truth – No, it is not. If you see any violence against women please report. It may be too late otherwise.
Children are not affected when one parent abuses the other. Truth – Witnessing violence is a risk factor for long term physical and mental health problems in children such as substance abuse.
“It is Important to recognize Sexual & GBV early and intervene/ help or support these persons to make a STOP to these abuse/ violence and make arrangements to separate them from the abusive situations.”
