Unit 2669: Understanding and Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

1. Introduction to Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

1.1 Definition and Scope

• What is Gender-Based Violence?
• Distinction between gender-based violence and other forms of violence

1.2 Forms of GBV

• Physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence
• Intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, trafficking, harmful traditional practices

1.3 Global Prevalence and Impact

• Statistics and data on GBV worldwide
• Impact on individuals, families, and communities
• Long-term social and economic consequences

2. International Human Rights Framework

2.1 Key International Instruments

• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
• Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action

2.2 Role of International Organizations

• United Nations and specialized agencies
• Monitoring and enforcement mechanisms

2.3 Challenges in Implementation

• Gaps between international frameworks and national laws
• Political and cultural resistance

3. Intersectionality and GBV

3.1 Understanding Intersectionality

• Definition and origins of the concept
• Importance in GBV analysis

3.2 Intersecting Identities

• Race, class, sexuality, disability, age, and other factors

3.3 Implications for Survivors and Responses

• How intersectionality affects vulnerability and access to support
• Tailoring interventions to diverse survivor needs

4. Legal Responses to GBV

4.1 National Legal Frameworks

• Criminalization of GBV acts
• Protective orders and restraining mechanisms
• Victim compensation and support services

4.2 International Legal Mechanisms

• International criminal law and tribunals
• Treaties and conventions enforcement

4.3 Challenges and Limitations

• Enforcement gaps
• Access to justice barriers

5. Gender-Based Violence in Conflict Settings

5.1 Characteristics of GBV in Conflicts

• Sexual violence as a weapon of war
• Targeting of specific groups

5.2 Post-Conflict Dynamics

• Continued risks and challenges
• Displacement and trauma

5.3 Transitional Justice Mechanisms

• Truth commissions
• War crimes tribunals
• Reparations and reconciliation efforts

6. Gender-Based Violence and Health

6.1 Physical and Mental Health Consequences

• Injuries, reproductive health issues
• Psychological trauma, PTSD, depression

6.2 Barriers to Healthcare

• Stigma and discrimination
• Lack of access and resources

6.3 Survivor-Centered Healthcare Approaches

• Confidentiality and informed consent
• Trauma-informed care
• Multidisciplinary support

7. Social and Cultural Factors in GBV

7.1 Social Norms and Gender Roles

• Patriarchy and power imbalances
• Stereotypes and myths about violence

7.2 Cultural Practices

• Harmful traditional practices (e.g., female genital mutilation, child marriage)

7.3 Influence on Justice and Support Access

• Community responses
• Barriers for survivors

8. Prevention Strategies for GBV

8.1 Primary Prevention

• Addressing root causes
• Gender equality promotion
• Education and awareness campaigns

8.2 Secondary Prevention

• Early identification and intervention
• Support services and crisis response

8.3 Tertiary Prevention

• Rehabilitation and reintegration
• Legal redress and survivor empowerment

8.4 Creating Safer Environments

• Community engagement
• Policy development and enforcement