Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is a universal issue and by delving into various forms of violence, physical, emotional and economic, we can better understand the underlying systemic factors that perpetuate this devastating cycle.
VAWG manifests itself in various forms, with physical violence being the most visible form, which often leaves physical scars and can result in long-term health issues. The psychological impact of physical violence is devastating and can lead to long-term emotional trauma and mental health disorders.
In addition to physical violence, emotional or psychological violence can often go unnoticed due to their less visible nature. These types of violence include verbal abuse, intimidation and controlling behaviours that can severely damage an individual’s self-esteem and mental well-being. Emotional violence can also lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness, making it difficult for victims to seek help or escape their abusers.
VAWG
Economic violence, which is often overlooked, involves controlling a woman’s access to financial resources, employment opportunities, and education. This traps women in a cycle of dependency and poverty, limiting their financial independence. Those who perpetrate economic violence ensure that women remain trapped in abusive situations with limited options for escape.
The global impact of VAWG is profound and far-reaching. According to the World Health Organisation, one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or sexual violence by a non-partner. This staggering statistic highlights the widespread nature of the issue and underscores the urgent need for global action to address it.
Education and economic empowerment programmes for women and girls can reduce their vulnerability to violence by increasing their financial independence and bargaining power within relationships. Providing women and girls with the skills and opportunities to achieve economic stability can break the cycle of dependency and create safer environments.
VAWG has major economic implications, costing countries billions of pounds in healthcare, legal, and social services. Additionally, the intergenerational impact of VAWG cannot be ignored, as children who witness violence are more likely to experience or perpetrate violence in their own lives, thereby continuing the cycle of abuse.
Long-term support services, such as counselling and mental health care, address the emotional and psychological impact of VAWG. Trauma-informed care prioritises the safety, choice, and empowerment of survivors to help them heal from their experiences and build resilience.
Successful Interventions
Successful interventions can provide effective strategies and best practices. One notable example is Uganda’s ‘SASA’ programme, a community-based intervention to prevent violence and promote gender equality. The programme engages community members in discussions and activities to challenge harmful gender norms and promote positive change, leading to a reduction in violence and increased support for gender equality.
Another successful intervention is the ‘Safe Cities’ initiative, implemented in cities including New Delhi, Cairo, and Kigali. This initiative creates safer public spaces for women and girls by addressing sexual harassment and violence in urban environments. Working with local authorities, community organisations, and residents, the Safe Cities initiative has reduced violence and increased safety for women and girls in public spaces
Conclusion
VAWG requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that encompasses prevention, protection, and support. By understanding the various forms of violence, the factors that contribute to it, and the impact they have on individuals and communities, we can develop strategies to combat this pervasive issue. Education, legal frameworks, community engagement, and support services all play a crucial role in creating a safer and more equitable world for women and girls.
Individuals, communities, and governments must work together to challenge harmful norms, promote gender equality and provide support for survivors. Everyone has a role to play in addressing VAWG, through advocacy, raising awareness, supporting survivors, or implementing policies and programmes that promote gender equality. By creating a world where women and girls are safe, empowered, and able to reach their full potential.