Gender-based violence (GBV) involves acts of violence committed against women, men, boys or girls, as a result of social norms about roles and behaviour expected of each gender. It often occurs within relationships.Also child marriage goes under this definition. Sexual violence is a form of gender-based violence which refers to violence that targets individuals or groups on the basis of their gender. It has been widely acknowledged that the majority of persons affected by gender-based violence are women and girls.

Gender-based violence affects everyone. Children raised in families where a woman is abused are also victims of violence (sometimes not physically, but always psychologically). The children witness violence and may form the impression that such behaviour is justified or normal; in other words, they assimilate violent norms. They are also brought up in a culture of violence that may negatively affect their self-development and ability to function in society. Gender-based violence affects family members, friends and colleagues. Gender-based violence has a very heavy economic cost. It requires the involvement of different services - medical, psychological, the police or justice system – and it results in the loss of resources or of employment by victims. It makes people underachieve at work and in education, and it negatively affects their productivity. Many people who suffer from gender-based violence cannot stay at home and need a place to stay, which sometimes results in homelessness.

Forms of gender-based violence

·         Violence against women and girls (VAWG) GBV is disproportionately directed against women and girls [4]. ...

·         Violence against LGBTI people. ...

·         Intimate partner violence (IPV) ...

·         Domestic violence (DV) ...

·         Sexual violence (SV) ...

·         Indirect (structural) violence.