What is gender-based violence? Isn’t it the same as domestic violence? Often people think gender-based violence is the same as violence against women or intimate partner violence – but this is not accurate.
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. Gender-based violence and violence against women are terms that are often used interchangeably as it has been widely acknowledged that most gender-based violence is inflicted on women and girls, by men. However, using the ‘gender-based’ aspect is important as it highlights the fact that many forms of violence against women are rooted in power inequalities between women and men. (European Institute for Gender Equality)
Gender-based violence are acts of violence committed against women, transgender and gender diverse people because of their gender, gender identity, gender expression, or perceived gender. Women and gender diverse people are disproportionate targets of gender-based violence, including intimate-partner violence. (LEAF – Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund Canada)
Learn how you can be an ally and end gender-based violence by joining The Steel City Allies. The Steel City Allies is an online call to action campaign. Together we are stronger.
Authored by Shawn Chisholm – Steering Committee Member, MentorAction