Definition of violence against women and girls

Violence against women as defined by the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (1993) amounts to ‘any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary de­privation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life' (1).

As well as being a violation of individual rights, violence against women and girls prevents them from flourishing and contributing to their families and communities. It thus has an impact on the eco­nomic and social well-being of any society. It also holds back pro­gress on international development targets (2).

Violence against women and girls encompasses rape in conflict, fe­male genital mutilation, stalking and harassment, child sexual abuse, ‘honour'-based violence, forced marriage, and domestic violence. It has physical, sexual, psychological, and economic consequences.

This chapter examines the health issues relating to violence against women and girls, the steps taken so far to prevent and cater for health implications, and suggests a way forward.