Gender-based Violence

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A few months ago, I went to do my chores. It was a far walk. Three older boys I knew attacked me, and raped me. I fought them as hard as I could, but it wasn’t enough. I felt shame and anger. I talked to my trusted friend. She took me to the police and a health centre for support. The boys made me feel I had no worth, but I learned I had the strength inside me. I WAS strong. And I was strong enough to seek help. Be an advocate! STOP GBV! Report GBV: CALL 623
— Imanya

What is Gender-based Violence?

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender. It is rooted in gender inequality, the abuse of power and harmful behaviour that some people consider normal. GBV is a serious violation of human rights and a life-threatening health and protection issue.

Gender-based violence is a CRIME.

What are some examples of GBV?

Sexual Assault and Rape

Child Marriage

Economic abuse

Physical violence against someone

Emotional or verbal abuse

What are the signs of GBV?

Unexplained bruises, scratches, cuts, or injuries

Sudden change in behaviour

Getting very quiet and scared-looking when a certain person enters the room

Fear of going home after school or work

Fear of certain people, places, or things

Seeming depressed, sad, crying a lot

Very nervous — getting scared or surprised easily

Running away from home

What is Sexual Assault & Rape? >>>

How can I be an Ally? >>>

What is Child Marriage? >>>

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What is Sexual Assault & Rape?

Rape is a type of sexual assault, usually involving sexual intercourse or other forms of sexual penetration, carried out against a person without that person’s consent.
Rape is a crime. If you or someone you know has been raped, contact a trusted friend or adult. You should go to a health centre and contact the police. Dial 623 to obtain free information.

What should I do if I or someone I know has been a victim of Rape or GBV?

DO NOT WASH MYSELF OR MY CLOTHES
I may destroy valuable evidence.
TELL SOMEONE
Talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, or other support person.
GO TO THE NEAREST HEALTH CENTRE AND TELL THEM WHAT HAPPENED
If you were recently sexually assaulted, you can get medical attention through a Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence Treatment Centre in your community.
REPORT IT TO THE POLICE
Services are confidential. Call 623.
It is your decision whether or not you wish to report to the police and provide them with the forensic evidence collected.
Not everyone wishes to formally report what happened to the police. If you don’t want to, that’s okay also. The stigma can be difficult to manage, and reporting may be difficult.
FIND COUNSELLING
Contact a youth-friendly health centre for support, counselling and information about reporting options (if you are interested in learning more about reporting).
Call 623.
Find the support you need >>>

How can I be an Ally?

Recognize the role of gender in violence.
While boys and men also experience abuse, it is important to remember that the majority of victims of violence are female, and the majority of aggressors of violence are boys and men.
BOYS & MEN
Do you talk about consent with your friends?
Do you talk about consent with people you want to date?
How can I stop GBV?
TIPS TO PREVENT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE & INEQUALITY
1. Educate myself on the root causes of violence.
2. Confront and reflect on my ideas and beliefs.
3. Stop stereotyping men’s and women’s roles.
4. Understand and practice consent.
INTERRUPT ABUSE WHEN IT HAPPENS
1. Get the message out!
2. Share articles, tips and tools for the prevention of violence on social media.
GIRLS: DEVELOP AN ACTION PLAN
1. Plan ahead.
2. Consider what to do in situations where people I know — or strangers — are being abusive.
CREATE SAFE SPACES
1. Discuss gender-based violence.
2. Remember that violence is a choice, and it is preventable.
3. Stop victim blaming.
4. Be supportive and validate the feelings of people who have been abused.
5. Be aware of available resources for girls and women.

What is Child Marriage?

Child marriage refers to any formal marriage or informal union between a child under the age of 18 and an adult or another child.
Child marriage is a violation of children’s human rights and a form of gender-based violence that robs girls of their childhood.
Child marriage disrupts a girl’s education, and their vulnerability often leads to violence, discrimination and abuse.

What are the dangers of child marriage?

Child brides are isolated.

Child brides have a greater risk of experiencing physical and sexual violence.

Child brides have a higher risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.

Girls having babies before 19 is the leading cause of death for women in South Sudan. Having a baby too early can lead to obstetric fistula or death.

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My name is Agiba. When I was 13, my family was in a bad way. My father arranged for me to marry a merchant with a shop. The man was over 50. I cried and cried… I wanted to go to school and have a career, not marry a much older man. My uncle convinced my father that the marriage was a bad idea. He said that I was smart enough to become a doctor, or a teacher, or a lawyer, or an economist, and that I would help the family better that way. He was right. Not only do I help my family, but my community as well. We all have the right to decide when to marry and IF we want to marry at all. I now spread awareness about the dangers of child marriage. 

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#1. What should I do if I’ve been a victim of GBV or rape?

Choose ALL that apply...

Find the help you need.

Talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, healthcare worker or other support person. Report what happened to the police, if it feels safe.

DO NOT wash yourself or your clothes, as this may destroy valuable evidence.

FINISH

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