Gender-based violence is violence involving men and women, in which the female is usually the victim, due to unequal power relationships between men and women. Often viewed as a protection or legal rights issue, it is equally important that it be recognized as a public health concern.

Two new policy briefs produced for the Interagency Gender Working Group, outline clearly and succinctly how GBV impacts many reproductive health outcomes—unintended pregnancy, maternal and child health, and STIs/HIV—and make the case that health services have a crucial role to play in responding to GBV.

Gender-Based Violence: Impediment to Reproductive Health (PDF: 373KB)

This two-page brief answers the question “why is gender-based violence relevant to reproductive health?” Produced for the IGWG by Population Reference Bureau and funded by USAID, the brief outlines the sheer magnitude of GBV and its impacts on many reproductive health outcomes, including unintended pregnancy, maternal and child health, and STIs/HIV. It is a valuable resource for gender and development advocates making the case to policymakers as to why GBV is a public health matter they must address. June 2010

To order hard copies, email prborders@prb.org.

The Crucial Role of Health Services in Responding to Gender-Based Violence (PDF: 360KB)

Gender-based violence, and violence against women particularly, causes a host of health problems globally that strain health systems’ resources, limit women’s grown and productivity, and impede the well-being of families and communities. Sadly, health systems have been slow to respond, despite the fact that they are often the first place to which survivors of violence turn. This brief outlines guidelines for health care providers in addressing abuse, describes case studies from four countries, and identifies some next steps for policymakers, health professionals, and funders. August 2010

To order hard copies, email prborders@prb.org.