Why Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Concerns Us All

Introduction

Upon hearing the heartbreaking news of Heaven’s (a little angel’s) passing, I felt compelled to write about gender-based violence (GBV) in simple terms. This incident occurred approximately 12 years ago when I worked as a gender focal person alongside my media and research responsibilities at the Federal Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (FEACC). During that time, our organization actively participated in the 16 Days of Activism campaign. As part of our efforts, we invited a medical director from Gandhi Memorial Hospital to raise awareness among our staff about GBV.

The Insightful Medical Director

Despite his busy schedule, the medical director dedicated time to address our team, recognizing the gravity of the issue and showing respect for our commission. His approach left a lasting impression on me. Instead of presenting abstract statistics,

He personalized GBV by connecting it to individual lives. He spoke of cases that reached him almost daily, emphasizing that GBV occurs silently, with only a few courageous survivors making it into the media spotlight.

Why the Silence?

GBV remains shrouded in silence for several reasons:

1. Proximity: GBV often occurs within close-knit circles—among family members, neighbors, or acquaintances. This proximity makes it difficult for victims to come forward.
2. Power Dynamics: Perpetrators often wield power over their victims, further discouraging disclosure.

GBV: Everyone’s Responsibility

The medical director posed thought-provoking questions, urging us to consider our role in addressing GBV:

1. Taxi Assistant Assault: Imagine a young girl taking a taxi to school. She trusts the driver, assuming her safety is guaranteed. However, the taxi assistant, someone she interacts with regularly, violates that trust by assaulting her. This incident highlights how GBV can occur even in seemingly mundane situations.
2. The Neighbor’s Betrayal: A family leaves their daughter in the care of a trusted neighbor while they’re at work. The neighbor, someone they’ve known for years, takes advantage of this trust and perpetrates violence against the child. This heartbreaking scenario underscores the proximity of GBV within familiar circles.
3. Late School Pick-Up Dilemma: Imagine a mother who occasionally picks up her daughter late from school due to work commitments. During one of these delays, her daughter encounters an abusive school director, teacher, or school guard. The power dynamics at school—where the staff holds authority over the child—make it challenging for her to speak out.
4. Betrayal by Close Family Members: GBV perpetrated by close family members—such as parents, siblings, or spouses—creates a unique and devastating dynamic. The very people who should provide safety and support become the source of harm. This betrayal shatters trust and leaves survivors feeling isolated and vulnerable.
5. Power Imbalance: When a relative inflicts violence, power dynamics come into play. The perpetrator often holds authority or influence over the survivor. This power imbalance makes it difficult for the survivor to speak out or seek help.

These examples emphasize that GBV is not an abstract issue; it affects real people in their everyday lives. By discussing these situations openly, we can raise awareness and work toward prevention. Ethiopian Media Women Association

#JusticeToHeaven and to all those who are survivors/lost their lives due to #genderbasedviolence.

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