Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious violation of human rights and a life-threatening health and protection issue. When people flee their homes, they are often at greater risk of physical, sexual and psychological violence.
Although anyone – women, girls, men and boys – can fall victim to violence simply because of their sex or gender, women and girls are especially at risk. It is estimated that one in three women will experience sexual or physical violence in their lifetime.
Gender-based violence is preventable and UNHCR is committed to promoting gender equality and protecting displaced and stateless people from GBV.
What are forms of gender-based violence (GBV)?
Gender-based violence can include sexual, physical, mental and economic harm inflicted in public or in private. It also includes threats of violence, coercion and manipulation. The consequences of gender-based violence are devastating and can have life-long repercussions for survivors. It can even lead to death.
What is UNHCR doing to end gender-based violence?
Gender-based violence programming (i.e. prevention and response) and risk mitigation across all sectors is lifesaving and an institutional priority for us. We work together with partners, governments and communities to address GBV and to implement quality programming to prevent, mitigate and respond.
Our primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and other people who were forced to flee. We support States to uphold their responsibility to ensure that people of concern are protected against GBV.
ALWAYS REMEMBER !!!
If you or someone you know is exposed to or at risk of violence, please do not hesitate to seek help. Remember you are not alone, and help is available.
There is support available, including health support, psycho-social support, and legal assistance, if required. You should not feel ashamed to seek any of this support.
Remember that all information you provide will be treated as strictly confidential and will not be shared with anyone without your consent.
You have the right to express your preference to talk with either a female or a male staff from UNHCR.
- Be supportive: Keep yourself, your family, and your community informed and protected.
- Say No to any form of violence – including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or economic violence.
- Nothing can be an excuse for violence against women.
- Men and boys can also be survivors of violence. If you feel hurt, threatened, or harassed, you should not feel ashamed to seek support.
For more information on the services that UNHCR provides, please click here.
You can seek help confidentially by contacting UNHCR office. To see the contact information of each office, please click here.