Gender-based violence is a harmful act committed against a person's will and is based on the expected social roles of men and women. Gender-based violence programs provide support to people who have experienced acts of violence whether sexual, physical, psychological, emotional or economic in nature.

What are common acts of gender-based violence?

Acts of gender-based violence are  : rape (vaginal, anal or oral penetration without consent, using the penis or another part of the body), sexual assault (attempted rape, kissing, caressing and unwanted touching of the breasts, genitals or buttocks), physical assault (hits, slaps, strangulation, cuts, shoves, burning, shooting or use), forced marriage (marriage of a person against their will), denial of resources, opportunities or services (preventing a widow from receiving an inheritance, confiscation of a person's income by their intimate partner or family member), psychological/emotional violence (threats of physical or sexual violence, intimidation, humiliation, forced isolation, verbal harassment)

What are the consequences of gender-based violence and how to report a case of gender-based violence?

Women and girls are usually the main victims of these acts which expose you to unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, sterility, disability, isolation, loss of self-esteem, sleep disorders, negative and suicidal thoughts... When you are a victim of rape, sexual assault, assault and battery, intimidation and humiliation, denial of resources, opportunities or services, you can seek help from the competent State services such as the Local Services for the Promotion of Women, Children and the Family or NGOs to receive support adapted to your situation.

Why denounce (report) cases of gender-based violence?

Quickly seek help in complete confidentiality, helping to limit the harmful consequences of gender-based violence on your health and reducing its social and economic impact on you, your family and your community.

Do I have to pay to access support services?

No, not at all. At the IRC, the management of cases of Gender-Based Violence is free.

For more information on supporting women and girls and combating GBV or to obtain support, please contact us via the Facebook page Anoura.info