Gender-based violence refers to harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender. It is a phenomenon deeply rooted in gender inequality and continues to be one of the most notable human rights violations within all societies. Although anyone can fall victim to violence simply because of their sex or gender, women and girls are especially at risk. Gender-based violence can take many forms, including:

• Physical violence: This includes hitting, slapping, kicking, or any other form of physical harm.

• Sexual violence: This includes rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment.

• Psychological violence: This includes psychologically abusive behaviors, such as controlling, coercion, economic violence, and blackmail.

• Economic violence: This includes controlling a persons access to economic resources, such as money or employment opportunities.

• Online violence: This includes all sorts of illegal or harmful behaviors against women in the online space, such as illegal threats, stalking, or incitement to violence.

Gender-based violence is preventable, and there are efforts to promote gender equality and protect people from GBV. It is important to note that although both women and men experience gender-based violence, the majority of victims are women and girls.