Violence Against Women and Girls: A Global Crisis

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most extensive human rights violations worldwide. It crosses borders, cultures, and social classes, affecting millions and continuing cycles of inequality and oppression. Despite global efforts to address this issue, it persists as a significant barrier to achieving gender equality and sustainable development.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that 1 in 3 women globally has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, most often at the hands of an intimate partner. Additionally, practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and human trafficking disproportionately affect girls and women, stripping them of their rights and opportunities.

Violence takes many forms, including:

• Physical violence, such as assault and domestic abuse.
• Sexual violence, including rape, sexual assault, and harassment.
• Emotional and psychological abuse, such as coercive control, gaslighting, and verbal attacks.
• Structural violence, where societal systems and norms perpetuate discrimination and inequality.

Root Causes of Violence

At the core of violence against girls and women lies deeply ingrained gender inequality. Authoritative systems and societal norms often normalise and perpetuate violence, portraying it as acceptable or inevitable. Key contributing factors include:

• Cultural norms and traditions: In some communities, harmful practices like FGM and child marriage are upheld in the name of tradition.
• Economic dependency: Financial insecurity can trap women in abusive relationships, as they lack the means to escape.
• Lack of legal protections: In some countries, laws protecting women from violence are weak, poorly enforced, or non-existent.
• Societal stigma: Victims of violence often face blame, shame, and ostracism, discouraging them from seeking help.

The Impact of Violence

The consequences of violence against girls and women are profound and far-reaching:

• Physical and mental health: Survivors often face chronic pain, injuries, and mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Economic impact: Violence disrupts education and employment opportunities, contributing to long-term poverty and economic inequality.
• Intergenerational effects: Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to perpetuate or become victims of violence themselves.

Breaking the Cycle: What Can Be Done?

Ending violence against girls and women requires a collective, multi-faceted approach. Here are some key strategies:

1. Education and Awareness
• Promote gender equality from an early age through education.
• Challenge harmful gender stereotypes and cultural norms.
2. Strengthening Legal Frameworks
• Advocate for comprehensive laws that protect women and girls from violence.
• Ensure effective enforcement and accountability for perpetrators.
3. Support Services for Survivors
• Provide accessible shelters, counselling, and medical care.
• Create safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences without fear of judgment or reprisal.
4. Empowerment and Economic Independence
• Invest in programs that enhance women’s financial independence.
• Support initiatives that provide education and job training for girls and women.
5. Community Engagement
• Involve men and boys in conversations about gender equality and violence prevention.
• Partner with community leaders to challenge and change harmful traditions.

Guidance and Support in the UK

The UK has several laws and guidance documents aimed at addressing violence against girls and women, including:

• The Domestic Abuse Act 2021: Provides a clear definition of domestic abuse and strengthens protections for survivors.
• The Serious Violence Strategy: Focuses on early intervention and prevention of violence, particularly among vulnerable populations.
• The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (amended in 2015): Criminalises FGM and includes provisions for protection orders.
• The Children Act 1989: Offers guidance on safeguarding children from harm, including exposure to domestic violence.

For those seeking support, numerous organisations in the UK are dedicated to helping survivors of violence:

• Refuge: Provides emergency accommodation, advocacy, and support for women and children escaping domestic violence.
• Women’s Aid: Offers resources, helplines, and community-based support services.
• Victim Support: Delivers free, confidential support for victims of crime, including sexual violence.
• NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children): Focuses on protecting children from abuse and offers support for young survivors.
• Rape Crisis England & Wales: Provides specialist services and counselling for survivors of sexual violence.
• Karma Nirvana: Supports victims of honour-based abuse and forced marriage.

In Summary

Violence against girls and women is not inevitable; it is preventable. By addressing its root causes and supporting survivors, we can create a world where every girl and woman can live free from fear and violence. It is a shared responsibility that requires commitment, compassion, and courage from individuals, communities, and governments alike.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, follow safeguarding procedures in your organisation.