Experts in harm reduction and prevention of gender-based violence in women who use drugs, and women who provide sex services

The term “gender based violence” (GBV) combines widespread forms of violence against women and includes intimate partner violence (IPV), physical and sexual violence by a non-partner, forced early marriages, and trafficking. Gender-based violence remains a serious public health and social threat in the world, regardless to economic status of the countries or regions, and contributes to a host of negative physical and mental health consequences for women and their children.

Unfortunately, there is lack of sustainable mechanisms in place for changing behavioral stereotypes and developing negative attitude towards violence by government agencies, local communities and the victims’ social network. Women from socially disadvantaged groups, including women who use drugs, and women engaged in sex work, remain the most vulnerable to violence. Violence against these groups is systemic.

Globally, about 35% of women suffer from physical, sexual, psychological violence by sexual partner or another person.