GENDER-BASED

VIOLENCE
Submitted to:

Dr. Ursula Damaso

Submitted by:

Raicee H. Castañarez

April 25, 2024

Gender-based violence is a phenomenon deeply rooted in gender inequality, and

continues to be one of the most notable human rights violations within all societies. Gender-

based violence is violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and

men experience gender-based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls. (Eige,

2024) Violence as a means of elevating their personal beliefs and believing that they are in

authority of other genders. Social expectations that equate masculinity with dominance,

aggression, and control, leading some men to use violence as a means of asserting power and

maintaining authority. Gender-based violence are commonly based on gender stereotypes.

According to OHCHR (2024), gender stereotype is a generalized view or

preconception about attributes or characteristics, or the roles that are or ought to be

possessed by, or performed by, women and man wherein all men are expected to act just like

other men, assertive, competitive, rational and independent, and women are expected to be

emotional, caring, and submissive. These type of violence are under the beliefs that men are

superior to all genders, and that you shall act based on what gender you belong. GBV

encompasses a range of behaviors and actions that result in physical, sexual, psychological, or

economic harm, motivated by gender inequality and the desire to exert power and control over

others. This violence can occur within intimate relationships, families, communities, workplaces,

institutions, and public spaces .

The interpretation of violent actions is influenced by gender in distinct ways for women

and men, and this interpretation varies significantly based on the surrounding situational and

cultural factors. For instance, the seriousness of particular physical behaviors is judged

differently depending on whether the perpetrator is male or female. A comprehensive

comprehension of gender-related violence necessitates moving beyond merely examining

gender-based distinctions in the frequency and severity assessments of specific actions, towards

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exploring how different facets of gender impact the predictors, dynamics, and consequences of

violence experienced by every gender.

According to Sharokh & Edstrom (2015), GBV is rooted in historical and structural

inequalities in power relations. It is intrinsically linked with gender stereotypes and

discriminatory norms that underlie and perpetuate such violence. It is an extreme manifestation

of patriarchal power inequalities, where some men resort to violence to exert control and power

over the bodies of women, and other genders. GBV can be understood as an expression of

masculinity. Although not all men are violent, GBV is most commonly directed by a man against

a woman because she is a woman, or affects women disproportionately. Manifestations of

masculinity as forms and expressions of violence differ across societies, and must be

contextually understood in terms of local ideals of ‘being a man’, and why these are upheld and

accepted by men and women

In societies across the globe, gender-based violence stands as a profound challenge to

human rights, social justice, and gender equality. This issue encompasses a spectrum of abusive

behaviors that disproportionately affect various gender identities. From intimate partner violence

to sexual harassment in public spaces, the manifestations of gender-based violence are complex,

entrenched, and multifaceted.

As GBV is believed to be wide-dimensional and does not only encompass one specific

type of gender. Even if given in studies that women are common victims of these violence, there

are still different type of situation where this specific issue may be applied. Men can experience

various forms of violence, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and harassment.

Stereotypes about male strength and dominance may prevent male victims from seeking help or

reporting abuse. LGBTQ+, also experience high rates of violence, this includes physical attacks,

sexual violence, and hate crimes. Furthermore, older adults, may experience GBV in the form of

elder abuse, neglect, and mistreatment. Even children may experience or be part of bullying in

any types or settings.

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 Gender-based violence is not to imply that other gender are never violent against men

because this specific issue vary from person to person. The rates and forms of violence, including

intimate partner violence, vary widely across cultures . In the United States, recent studies have

reported that women and men commonly commit violent acts such as shoving, hitting, or

throwing objects against each other, and have found little difference in prevalence rates for such

acts by gender.

Gender based violence is present in diverse forms and far-reaching consequences.

Domestic violence, a prevalent manifestation of this phenomenon, encompasses physical,

emotional, and sexual abuse inflicted within intimate relationships or households. The power

dynamics inherent in such violence often perpetuate cycles of control and trauma, trapping

victims in a web of fear and dependency.

Sexual violence, another form of gender-based abuse, extends beyond physical acts to

encompass coercion, harassment, and assault across various settings, from workplaces to other

institutions. The pervasive nature of sexual violence underscores the systemic imbalances of

power and the normalization of harmful behaviors that perpetuate gender inequality.

Furthermore, harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and child marriage

epitomize entrenched traditions that strip individuals of their bodily rights. These practices,

deeply rooted in cultural norms and patriarchal structures, shows the intersectionality of gender-

based violence with broader social contexts.

Based on an article, women in Asia and the Middle East are killed in the name of honor.

Girls in West Africa undergo genital mutilation in the name of custom. Migrant and refugee

women in Western Europe are attacked for not accepting the social mores of their host

community. Young girls in southern Africa are raped and infected with HIV/AIDs because the

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perpetrators believe that sex with virgins will cure them of their disease. And in the richest, most

developed countries of the world, women are battered to death by their partners.

Gender-based violence does not occur in isolation but is deeply connected to societal

norms, attitudes, and beliefs. According to Evans (2024), patriarchal ideology is the idea that

men have more power, dominance, and privilege than women. Patriarchy is a social system in

which men are thought to hold positions of power in both the public and private spheres.

Patriarchal ideologies that prioritize male dominance and control often underpin acts of violence

against women and other gender minorities . The normalization of aggression and the

objectification of women in media and popular culture further retain harmful stereotypes and

contribute to an environment conducive to violence.

Cultural practices and traditions, while integral to identity and community, can also serve

as factors for gender-based violence. Honor killings, driven by notions of family honor and

female chastity, exemplify the intersection of patriarchal values with cultural expectations. Such

practices presents the relationship among gender, culture, and violence, necessitating nuanced

approaches that address entrenched beliefs while respecting cultural diversity.

The consequences of gender-based violence extend far beyond individual trauma,

reflecting throughout families, communities, and societies at large. Survivors often experience

profound psychological distress, diminished self-worth, and enduring physical health issues. The

ripple effects of violence can disrupt social cohesion, perpetuate cycles of poverty, and impede

access to education and economic opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups.

Children exposed to this violence are at heightened risk of developmental challenges and

intergenerational cycles of abuse. Moreover, the economic costs of gender-based violence

including legal fees, and lost productivity exert a significant burden on national economies,

showing the importance for policy responses.

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 Effectively combating gender-based violence demands a holistic, intersectional approach

that transcends individual acts of aggression to address systemic inequalities. Legal frameworks

must be strengthened to ensure accountability and justice for survivors, while comprehensive

support services including shelters, counseling, and economic empowerment initiatives must be

accessible and responsive to diverse needs.

In conclusion, gender-based violence constitutes a grave violation of human rights and a

formidable obstacle to gender equality. This issue must be integrated with collective action and

urgency.

Furthermore, addressing gender-based violence requires a holistic approach that

recognizes the intersectionality of identities and experiences. By centering the voices of different

genders and promoting inclusivity, solidarity and strengthen movements towards gender justice

and social transformation can be built.

Cause

Gender-based violence has diverse underlying causes that vary depending on gender,

personal experiences, and environmental factors. These causes collectively contribute to why

such violence occurs. Firstly, gender inequality perpetuates a system where certain genders hold

more authority over others, leading to subordination and unequal power dynamics. Additionally,

gender norms dictate societal expectations regarding the roles and behaviors of men and women.

These norms socialize males to exhibit traits like aggression, power, emotional suppression, and

control, fostering a culture that accepts male dominance. Conversely, societal expectations

portray females as passive, nurturing, submissive, and emotional, reinforcing their perceived

weakness, powerlessness, and dependence on men. This socialization process contributes to an

unequal power relationship between men and women, fueling the prevalence of gender-based

violence.

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 Other several factors also contribute to the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in

societies worldwide. Economic factors, such as poverty and instability, play a significant role in

increasing the risk of GBV. Economic dependence on a partner or limited access to resources can

trap individuals in abusive relationships, making it difficult for them to seek help or leave

harmful situations. This economic vulnerability can perpetuate cycles of violence, as survivors

may feel unable to escape due to financial constraints or fear of losing economic support.

Another key factor is the lack of education and awareness about gender equality and

rights. Limited access to education and information can perpetuate harmful attitudes and

behaviors that fuel GBV. Education is crucial in empowering individuals to challenge gender

stereotypes and promote respectful relationships. Without awareness of rights and equality,

individuals may be more susceptible to accepting or engaging in violent behaviors.

Trauma and past experiences of violence also contribute to the likelihood of perpetrating

or experiencing GBV. Childhood abuse or exposure to violence can increase vulnerability to

future violence in adulthood. Unhealthy interpersonal relationships characterized by control,

jealousy, or possessiveness can further exacerbate the risk of GBV, creating environments where

violence becomes normalized or expected.

Socialization and traditional gender roles play a significant role in perpetuating GBV.

Traditional expectations of gender roles reinforce unequal power dynamics and normalize

violence as a means of asserting control or dominance. Messages from media, peers, and family

members can shape attitudes and behaviors related to gender and violence, influencing how

individuals perceive and respond to GBV.

Additionally, structural factors such as weak legal systems, inadequate services for

survivors, and lack of accountability for perpetrators contribute to perpetuating a culture of

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impunity around GBV. These structural issues create barriers to accessing justice and protection

for survivors, allowing GBV to persist unchecked within communities. Addressing GBV requires

comprehensive strategies that address these underlying economic, educational, interpersonal,

social, and structural factors to create lasting change and promote gender equality and safety for

all individuals.

In order to present a clearer picture and examples of the presented root causes,

researchers constructed frameworks that may show how experiences, environment and

beliefs may affect the execution of gender based violence.

Individual perpetrator

 Witnessing marital violence as a child

 Absent or rejecting father

 Being abused as a child

 Alcohol use

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Relationship

 Marital conflict ̧

 Male control of wealth and decision-making in the family

Community

 Poverty, low socio- economic status, unemployment

 Associating with peers who condone violence

 Isolation of women and family

Society

 Norms granting men control over female behavior

 Acceptance of violence as a way to resolve conflict

 Notion of masculinity linked to dominance, honor and aggression

 Rigid gender roles

At the individual level, experiences such as witnessing marital violence during childhood,

having an absent or rejecting father figure, being a survivor of childhood abuse, or struggling

with alcohol use can significantly impact behavior within relationships. Exposure to violence in

the family of origin may normalize aggressive behaviors as a means of conflict resolution or

control. Additionally, individuals lacking positive paternal influences or experiencing childhood

abuse may struggle with self-esteem issues and adopt maladaptive coping mechanisms,

potentially leading to perpetration of violence in adulthood.

Within intimate relationships, dynamics like high levels of marital conflict and unequal

power distribution where males control wealth and decision-making can create fertile ground for

abusive behaviors to manifest. Marital discord coupled with financial control may escalate into

violence, particularly when one partner seeks to dominate or exert authority over the other.

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 Communal factors further influence GBV dynamics. Economic stressors associated with

poverty, low socio-economic status, or unemployment can exacerbate tensions within families

and communities, increasing the risk of violence. Social networks that normalize or condone

violence, coupled with the isolation of women and families lacking access to support networks,

can further

perpetuate cycles of abuse and hinder victims' ability to seek help or escape from abusive

situations.

At the societal level, gender norms that grant men control over female behavior and

accept violence as a legitimate means of conflict resolution play a pivotal role in perpetuating

GBV. Traditional notions of masculinity reinforce harmful behaviors among men, while rigid

gender roles limit individuals' autonomy and perpetuate inequality. Collectively, these societal

factors create conditions that normalize and perpetuate gender-based violence.

Kinds

According to Gender matters (2024), there are many types of violence present in this issue,

wherein it includes matter as;

 Physical violence- Physical violence sends a clear message to the victim from the

perpetrator: “I can do things to you that you do not want to happen.” Such

violence demonstrates differences of social power, or may intend to promote particular

demands, sometimes regularly, through coercion. Physical violence in intimate

relationships, often referred to as domestic violence, continues to be a widespread

phenomenon in every country.

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 

 Verbal violence-Verbal violence can include issues that are specific to a person, such as

putdowns (in private or in front of others), ridiculing, the use of swear-words that are

especially uncomfortable for the other, saying bad things about the other’s loved ones,

threatening with other forms of violence, either against the victim or against somebody

dear to them. At other times, the verbal abuse may be relevant to the background of the

victim, such as their religion, culture, language, (perceived) sexual orientation or

traditions.

 Psychological violence-Apart from this, there are certain forms of violence which take

place using methods which cannot be placed in other categories, and which therefore can

be said to achieve psychological violence in a ‘pure’ form. This includes isolation or

confinement, withholding information, disinformation, and threatening behaviour.

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  Sexual violence -Marital rape and attempted rape constitute sexual violence. Examples of

forced sexual activities include being forced to watch somebody masturbate, forcing

somebody to masturbate in front of others, forced unsafe sex, sexual harassment, and

abuse related to reproduction.

 Socio-economic violence-Socio-economic violence in the public sphere is both a cause

and an effect of dominant gender power relations in societies. It may include denial of

access to education or (equally) paid work (mainly to women), denial of access to

services, exclusion from certain jobs, denial of pleasure and the enjoyment of civil,

cultural, social and political rights. In the case of LGBT+ people, they may even be

subject to criminalization.

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  Domestic violence or in intimate relationships -It also requires special attention, because

it is a relational type of violence, and the dynamics are therefore very different from

violent incidents that occur among strangers. The fact that domestic violence was long

considered to be a private, domestic issue has significantly hampered recognition of the

phenomenon as a human rights violation. The invisibility of the phenomenon

was reinforced by an

understanding of international human rights law as applicable only to relations between

individual and the state (or states).

 Harassment and sexual harassment – It is any form of unwanted verbal, non-verbal or

physical conduct of a sexual nature with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a

person, in particular when creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or

offensive environment.

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 Different kinds of gender victims from gender-based violence namely;

 Women

 Men

 Transgender Individuals

 Non-Binary and Genderqueer Individuals

 Gender Minorities and Two-Spirit People

 Intersex Individuals

 Elderly Individuals

 Children and Youth

 Immigrants and Refugees

Women are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence, experiencing intimate

partner violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and systemic discrimination rooted in

patriarchal norms. These challenges are compounded by barriers in accessing justice, support

services, and economic opportunities due to entrenched gender inequalities.

Men, although less commonly recognized as victims, can also experience various forms

of abuse, including domestic violence, sexual violence, and coercive control, often facing stigma

or reluctance to report due to societal expectations around masculinity.

Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals face high rates of violence,

including hate crimes, intimate partner violence, and discrimination based on their gender

identity, exacerbated by transphobia and inadequate legal protections.

Non-binary and genderqueer individuals encounter unique challenges, including

harassment and exclusion due to societal misconceptions about gender identity. Indigenous Two-

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Spirit individuals experience specific forms of violence rooted in colonialism and discrimination,

leading to heightened vulnerability and marginalization.

Intersex people face human rights violations, including forced medical interventions and

discrimination due to their intersex status.

Solution

Article from Concern worldwide (2022) presented different ways on how to end gender

based violence:

1. Promote education at all levels as a pivotal strategy to combat gender-based violence (GBV),

recognizing that GBV is a learned behavior that can be unlearned. Education should empower

women with knowledge of their rights, reporting procedures, and methods to challenge harmful

gender norms. Similarly, men should understand how patriarchal structures perpetuate harmful

norms and behaviors, fostering an unhealthy dynamic. Communities must recognize and respond

to GBV, while facilitators should delve into the root causes of gendered violence at national,

regional, and community levels.

2. Investigate the specific root causes of GBV within each country and community,

acknowledging that while certain elements of gendered violence are consistent across contexts,

understanding local systems of marginalization and patriarchal structures is crucial for behavior

and attitude change. By addressing these underlying systems, sustainable solutions can be found

to break harmful habits affecting people of all genders and generations.

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3. Advocate for believing and supporting survivors of GBV to overcome one of the major

barriers in ending GBV—the lack of belief when survivors speak out. Ensuring survivors have

necessary support after reporting abuse is also essential to combat societal stigma and exclusion.

This includes access to quality healthcare, legal services, economic assistance, and safe shelters.

4. Focus on high-risk groups such as girls and young women with disabilities, Indigenous

women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and minorities, who face heightened vulnerability to GBV.

Tailored interventions and support are needed to address the specific risks faced by these groups.

5. Address harmful traditions like female genital mutilation (FGM) by promoting alternative

ritualistic programs that preserve cultural significance while eliminating risky practices. Engage

men as allies and partners in challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes.

6. Challenge other gender norms that contribute to GBV, such as stereotypes about roles and

activities assigned to different genders. Promote gender equality and positive relationships

through community engagement and education.

7. Empower women economically by ensuring equal access to financial resources and economic

opportunities. Economic empowerment reduces dependency and fosters gender equality.

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8. Promote women's participation and leadership in decision-making processes at all levels to

ensure that laws and policies are inclusive and responsive to the needs of women and girls.

9. Treat GBV as a public health issue, ensuring survivors have access to comprehensive

healthcare and mental health support. Normalize mental health services for survivors and

perpetrators to prevent and address the impact of GBV on physical and mental health.

10. Implement additional safeguards against GBV during crises and conflicts, recognizing the

heightened vulnerability of women and girls in humanitarian emergencies.

11. Address intersectional issues such as climate change, poverty, and hunger, which exacerbate

vulnerabilities to GBV. Addressing these interconnected issues simultaneously can lead to more

effective solutions.

12. Advocate for legislative measures to protect and promote gender equality, including

constitutional amendments that guarantee women's rights and protections against GBV.

Article from UN Women (2022) presented different ways on how to end gender based

violence:

1. Listen to and support survivors:

When a woman bravely shares her experience of violence, it's crucial to provide a safe space and

believe her without judgment. It's important to understand that a survivor's sobriety, clothing, or

sexuality are irrelevant in discussions about sexual violence. The sole responsibility lies with the

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perpetrator. Challenge victim-blaming attitudes and reject the notion that women are responsible

for avoiding dangerous situations. Stand in solidarity with survivors by affirming, "We hear you.

We believe you. We stand with you."

2. Educate and learn from the next generation:

Set positive examples for younger generations by initiating conversations about gender roles,

respect, and human rights. Challenge stereotypes encountered in media, schools, and

communities,

emphasizing the value of diversity and acceptance. Teach children about consent, bodily

autonomy, and accountability in age-appropriate ways, fostering an understanding that everyone

has the right to make choices about their bodies.

3. Advocate for responsive services:

Recognize the importance of essential services for survivors of gender-based violence, such as

shelters, helplines, and counseling. Support initiatives like the 16 Days of Activism campaign,

which calls for global action to end violence against women and girls. Advocate for increased

investments in prevention initiatives, essential survivor services, and data collection to improve

life-saving support.

4. Understand and promote clear consent:

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Emphasize the necessity of freely given, clear consent in all interactions. Avoid phrases that blur

the lines of consent or excuse perpetrators. Reject attitudes that blame victims and excuse

perpetrators, emphasizing the importance of unambiguous consent without any blurred lines.

5. Learn the signs of abuse and offer support:

Educate yourself about the signs of abuse and ways to help someone experiencing violence. Be

attentive to friends or individuals who may be at risk and offer resources for safety and support.

If you or someone you know is facing abuse, encourage seeking help from trained advocates at

helplines or support organizations.

6. Start conversations and raise awareness:

Speak out against violence by initiating conversations about gender-based violence and human

rights violations. Use social media platforms to raise awareness, share resources, and show

solidarity with survivors. Participate in campaigns like the 16 Days of Activism by using

hashtags and sharing content to spark conversations about ending gender-based violence.

7. Stand against rape culture:

Acknowledge and challenge rape culture, which normalizes and justifies sexual violence. Reflect

on personal biases and stereotypes that contribute to rape culture. Take action by redefining

masculinity and femininity in positive ways and supporting policies that promote gender equality

and respect.

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8. Support women's organizations:

Donate to local women's organizations that empower women, advocate for survivors, and

promote acceptance of all gender identities and sexualities. Support initiatives that work towards

ending violence against women and securing equal rights.

9. Hold each other accountable:

Take a stand against all forms of violence, including sexual harassment and inappropriate

behavior. Challenge peers who engage in disrespectful behaviors or make sexist comments.

Create a safer environment by promoting reflection and accountability among peers.

10. Demand comprehensive data collection:

Advocate for gender-sensitive data collection to better understand and combat gender-based

violence. Call on governments to invest in collecting accurate data on violence against women

and girls to inform effective prevention measures and support services.

What does the bible say about Gender Based Violence ?

The Bible may not address modern terms like "gender-based violence" explicitly, its overarching

principles of love, respect, justice, and protection can be applied to condemn any form of

violence or mistreatment based on gender or any other factor. Christians are called to uphold the

dignity and worth of every individual, treating others with the same love and respect that God

shows to all people.

Genesis 1:27

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"So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them;

male and female he created them."

This verse highlights the foundational belief in Christianity that all human beings are

created in the image of God, regardless of gender. This means every person possesses inherent

dignity, worth, and value. The concept of being made in God's image underscores the equality

and worth of both men and women, emphasizing their shared humanity and divine purpose.

The belief in the sacredness of every human life, as created in the image of God, serves

as a powerful motivator for the church to oppose gender-based violence. Recognizing the divine

image in all individuals compels Christians to stand against any form of violence or injustice that

seeks to devalue or harm individuals based on their gender. The church's response to GBV is

rooted in the affirmation of human dignity and the call to uphold the sanctity of life as imprinted

by God.

Ephesians 5:25-28

“Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church - a

love marked by giving, not getting."

This passage instructs husbands to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the

church. Christ's love for the church is characterized by selflessness, service, and giving. This

model of love calls husbands to honor, cherish, and protect their wives, reflecting Christ's love

for all believers.

The call for husbands to love their wives selflessly serves as a direct challenge to any

form of violence or abuse within marriage. The church emphasizes the importance of mutual

respect, care, and support within marital relationships. This verse encourages a relationship

dynamic based on love and mutual honor, opposing any behavior that undermines the well-being

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and dignity of spouses. The church's response to GBV includes teaching and modeling healthy,

Christ-centered relationships built on love and respect.

Psalm 82:4

"Deliver the poor and needy; Free them from the hand of the wicked."

This verse speaks to the broader theme of justice and the responsibility to defend the

oppressed and vulnerable in society. It highlights the biblical mandate to protect those who are

marginalized or mistreated, including the poor, needy, and oppressed.

Isaiah 1:17

"Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless;

plead the case of the widow."

Similarly, this verse underscores the call to pursue justice and advocate for the

marginalized and oppressed, including widows, orphans, and those without protection or support.

These verses emphasize the church's commitment to seeking justice and defending the

rights of the oppressed, including victims of gender-based violence. The church's response to

GBV involves actively advocating for policies and practices that protect vulnerable individuals,

provide support to survivors, and challenge systems that perpetuate violence and injustice. By

standing up for the oppressed and vulnerable, the church seeks to fulfill its mission of embodying

God's love and pursuing righteousness in a world marred by sin and brokenness.

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References

 http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/svaw/advocacy/modelsessions/causes_effects.PDF

 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6610117_Gender-Based_Violence?

fbclid=IwAR1IbsiYGzrufKzoUE8JJszJ3lCwOprOMPULHSAtxU_RR5F1dm_AMo

zmGfg

 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-

rights/gender-equality/gender-based-violence/what-gender-based-violence_en

 https://www.coe.int/en/web/gender-matters/types-of-gender-based-violence

 https://worldrenew.net/our-stories/ending-gender-based-violence-meet-mina

 https://www.concern.net/news/solutions-to-gender-based-violence

 https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/stories/2020/11/compilation-take-action-to-help-

end-violence-against-women

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  https://www.ohchr.org/en/ohchr_homepage

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