Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) is a pervasive issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. It transcends cultural, social, and economic boundaries. It’s not just about physical harm; it’s a complex web of violence rooted in gender inequality. To truly combat SGBV, we must first understand its multifaceted nature.

What is SGBV?

SGBV encompasses any act of violence that is perpetrated against someone based on their gender, gender identity, or perceived gender. It’s a violation of human rights and a serious public health concern. While anyone can experience SGBV, women and girls are disproportionately affected due to deeply ingrained power imbalances. Let’s break down the different forms it takes:

1. Physical Violence:

This is the most visible form of SGBV, involving the intentional use of physical force against another person, causing harm. Physical violence can result in severe injuries and long-term health consequences¹. It can include:

• Assault: Hitting, kicking, slapping, punching, or any other form of physical attack.
• Battery: Unlawful physical contact.
• Homicide: The killing of another person.
• Use of weapons: Inflicting harm with objects.

2. Sexual Violence:

Sexual violence is any sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act by violence or coercion, regardless of the relationship to the victim. Sexual violence not only causes physical harm but also leads to profound psychological and emotional trauma¹. It can include:

• Rape: Non-consensual sexual intercourse.
• Sexual assault: Any unwanted sexual contact.
• Forced marriage: Being compelled to marry against one’s will.
• Sexual harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.²
• Forced prostitution: Compelling someone into sexual acts for money.

3. Psychological Violence:

Also known as emotional or mental abuse, this form of violence targets a person’s emotional and mental well-being. It can be subtle yet deeply damaging. The impact of psychological violence can be long-lasting, affecting an individual’s mental health and well-being¹. It includes:

• Verbal abuse: Insults, threats, and name-calling.
• Intimidation: Using fear and threats to control someone.
• Isolation: Cutting someone off from friends, family, and support networks.
• Stalking: Repeatedly harassing or following someone.
• Gaslighting: Manipulating someone into questioning their own sanity.

4. Economic Violence:

Economic violence involves controlling a person’s access to financial resources, limiting their economic independence, and exploiting their financial vulnerability. This can involve restricting access to financial resources, education, or employment opportunities. It can also include not complying with economic responsibilities such as alimony. Economic violence undermines an individual’s ability to achieve financial independence and stability¹. Other ways it can manifest include:

• Controlling access to money: Preventing someone from earning or managing their own income.
• Sabotaging employment: Interfering with someone’s ability to work.
• Forced debt: Compelling someone to take on debt against their will.
• Property damage: Destroying someone’s belongings or assets.

The Link Between Gender Inequality and Violence:

SGBV is not an isolated issue; it’s a symptom of deeply rooted gender inequality. Societal norms, attitudes, and stereotypes around gender roles often perpetuate and normalize violence against certain genders, particularly women. These practices reinforce power imbalances, and tolerate discrimination that create an environment where SGBV thrives. Here are some key points that clarify this link:

• Power Imbalance and Patriarchy: Gender inequality creates a power imbalance where one gender is considered superior to another. This imbalance often leads to the subordination and marginalization of the less powerful gender (usually women), making them more vulnerable to violence¹. Systems that privilege men and subordinate women create a context where violence against women is normalized or condoned.
• Cultural and harmful gender norms: In many societies, cultural norms and traditions reinforce gender roles that justify or excuse violence. Rigid expectations about how men and women should behave contribute to violence. For example, the idea that men should be dominant and women should be submissive can lead to the acceptance of domestic violence as a norm¹.
• Economic Dependence and Lack of access to resources: Economic inequality between genders can exacerbate SGBV. When individuals, particularly women, are economically dependent on their partners, they may be less likely to leave abusive relationships due to financial insecurity³. Women and girls who lack access to education, economic opportunities, and legal protection are more vulnerable to SGBV.
• Impunity: When perpetrators are not held accountable for their actions, it sends a message that violence is acceptable.
• Lack of Legal Protection: In some regions, inadequate legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms fail to protect victims of SGBV. This lack of protection can be a result of gender biases within the legal system itself¹

Addressing SGBV requires a multifaceted approach that includes legal reforms, education, and the promotion of gender equality. By challenging and changing the societal norms and structures that perpetuate gender inequality, we can work towards a world free from SGBV.

Moving Forward:

Understanding the various forms of SGBV and its connection to gender inequality is crucial for creating effective prevention and intervention strategies. We must challenge harmful gender norms, promote gender equality, and hold perpetrators accountable. Together, we can work towards a world free from SGBV.

If you or someone you know is experiencing SGBV, please reach out for help. There are resources available to support you. Check out our website.

References

1. What is gender-based violence? – Gender Matters
2. Sexual Harassment Attorneys in Los Angeles County, CA
3. Forms of gender-based violence | EIGE