On gender based violence

Gender based violence (GBV) tempers with the issues of human rights and it is an ill in the society that is eating deep into its foundation. In the numerous number of gender based violence (GBV), gender inequality is the aspect of our report today.

The gender is categorized into two; male and female. Each has his/her genital differences and capacity. Gender inequality deals with the issue of inferiority. It promotes the state of placing one gender above the other and making the other gender lesser. Gender inequality is not perpetuated exclusively through deferential access to and control over material resources. Gender norms and stereotypes reinforce gendered identities and constrain the behavior of women and men in ways that lead to inequality (Ridgeway, 2011).

A Speech by UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Emma Watson at a special event for the HeForShe campaign was, “Both men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong… It is time that we all perceive gender on a spectrum not as two opposing sets of ideals”. This speech moves the motion for equality against inequality and preferences.

Statistically, women are mostly the victims of this type of gender based violence. They are depicted to be lower than the male gender therefore, are mostly seen as the second class citizen in the society. They are hindered opportunities unlike the men to secure a livelihood, to own businesses of their own, contest for public offices, acquire educational exposure and to contribute to the development or set up of a home as their opinions are not regarded. Their lack of income or limited resources reduces their capacity to bargain for equality in their homes or society.

However, Some cultures and traditions in our society most especially countries like Nigeria, have promoted this act of gender based violence by supporting the motion that women are restricted to serving their husbands, giving birth to children and taking care of them, as well as handling every household activity or chores; limiting the capacity of the female gender as inferior to the male gender.

Research has shown that some form of gender inequality can slow economic growth and development as both genders are not allowed equal rights or opportunities of participation. In relation to this gender inequality its effect extends to societal cost and failure to make advances in women representation means their life, conditions, and needs are not fully reflected at the national level in the distribution and allocation of public goods and services.

Nevertheless, the emergence of a human rights agenda in the mid-20th century and the women’s movements across the world since the 1960’s has contributed to increased global attention to this form of inequality. Also, numerous studies have found out that employment is a key mechanism for promoting equality or equity of gender. However, gains in political representation of women have been positive, but the gap still remains wide. It is an important impediment to gender progress. This is as a result of the public sector playing an important role in promoting gender equality via labour market regulations, family law, social protection, programmes and public investment in infrastructure that can reduce women’s care burden.

Martha Zamdai,

Department of Mass Communication

University of Maiduguri

Leave a Reply