Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that has plagued societies for centuries, with women and girls being disproportionately affected. This form of violence encompasses any harmful act that is perpetrated against an individual based on their gender, whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological in nature. Gender-based violence encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including domestic violence, sexual assault, honor killings, forced marriages, and female genital mutilation, among others. This essay will explore the historical context of gender-based violence, examine its impact on individuals and societies, and discuss influential figures who have contributed to the field.
Historically, gender-based violence has been deeply rooted in patriarchal societies where women and girls have been deemed as inferior to men (World Bank Group, 2023b). This has led to the normalization of violence against them, with little recourse for justice or support. Throughout history, women have been subjected to various forms of discrimination and violence, perpetuating a cycle of abuse and oppression. In many cultures, gender-based violence has been used as a tool to control and suppress women, reinforcing power imbalances and perpetuating inequality (World Bank Group, 2023b) .
The impact of gender-based violence is profound, affecting individuals on physical, emotional, and psychological levels. Victims of gender-based violence often experience long-term trauma, leading to a host of negative consequences such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even suicide (United Nations, n.d.-d).The effects of gender-based violence can also extend to families and communities, disrupting social cohesion and perpetuating cycles of violence. In addition, the economic costs of gender-based violence are staggering, with estimates suggesting that it can cost economies billions of dollars in lost productivity and health care expenses (United Nations, n.d.-d) .
Numerous influential figures have emerged in the field of gender-based violence, advocating for victims' rights and pushing for policy changes to address this issue. One such figure is Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban for her advocacy of girls' education. Yousafzai has used her platform to raise awareness about the impact of gender-based violence on girls and women, and to promote gender equality in education. Her work has earned her international acclaim and recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014.
Another prominent figure in the field of gender-based violence is Tarana Burke, the founder of the Me Too movement. Burke started the movement in 2006 to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault, particularly in the workplace. The Me Too movement gained widespread attention in 2017 with the hashtag #MeToo, prompting a global conversation about the pervasiveness of gender-based violence and the need for systemic change. Burke's work has been instrumental in challenging societal norms and advocating for survivors of gender-based violence(What Causes Gender-based Violence?, 2022b).
In conclusion, gender-based violence is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a concerted effort from individuals, communities, and governments to address. While progress has been made in raising awareness and advocating for victims' rights, much work remains to be done to eradicate this pervasive form of violence. By acknowledging the historical context, understanding the impact of gender-based violence, and supporting influential figures in the field, we can work towards creating a safer and more equitable world for all.
World Bank Group. (2023). Gender-Based Violence (Violence against women and girls). In World Bank. https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/socialsustainability/brief/violence-against-women-and-girls#:~:text=This%20issue%20is%20not%20only,significant%20social%20and%20economic%20costs.
What causes gender-based violence? (2022, December 2). Gender Matters. https://www.coe.int/en/web/gender-matters/what-causes-gender-based-violence#:~:text=Gender%2Dbased%20violence%2C%20and%20in,relations%20between%20women%20and%20men.