What is gender-based violence?
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a term used to describe any violence, threat or harm against a person because of their gender.
This violence can be between husband and wife, parent and child, teacher and student, people within the same community or even family. Often, GBV is committed by people with power over another person. Anyone can be a victim of GBV.
Violence is never acceptable. You have a right to be safe.
What support is available if I am a survivor of Gender-Based Violence?
Please contact us if you believe you are experiencing or are at risk of gender-based violence. Our team will counsel you and support you.
Experiencing sexual violence or violence because of your gender is never your fault! It is never too late to report or ask for help. UNHCR and its partners are available to support you.
Depending on your situation, UNHCR and partner organization will work to provide you with the support you need, such as:
- Medical treatment
- Psychosocial support
- Financial assistance
- Legal advice and accompaniment
- Temporary shelter
All GBV reports and counselling are completely confidential!
Who do I contact at UNHCR to report GBV?
If you are experiencing any sexual harassment, physical or sexual violence (at home or outside the home) or threats of violence, please contact any of the lines below:
UNHCR GBV Hotline: 081-750-4081
You can also contact:
UNHCR Reception
02-340-6500 (Monday-Friday 09:00–16:30)
Email: [email protected]
UNHCR Emergency hotline
0818997617 (Monday-Friday 16:30 – 23:00; Saturday-Sunday and UN holidays 09.00–22:00)
As a refugee, can I report abuse to the police?
If you are a survivor of gender-based violence or any violence, you may report this to the police, although it is not required. It is important that you make the decision about what you think is best for your own safety and recovery. If there is an immediate threat to your safety and your life is at risk, the police may be best placed to protect you.
However, it’s important to know that if you do not have a valid visa, you could be at risk of arrest if you go to a police station.
If you are thinking about reporting abuse, a specialized UNHCR protection officer can talk with you about your options and how UNHCR can support you, including having a UNHCR officer go with you to make a criminal complaint with the police.
Please contact UNHCR for questions about support with police reports:
UNHCR GBV Hotline: 081-750-4081
You can also contact:
UNHCR Reception
02-340-6500 (Monday-Friday 09:00–16:30)
Email: [email protected]
UNHCR Emergency hotline
0818997617(Monday-Friday 16:30 – 23:00; Saturday-Sunday 09.00–23:00)
