Gendered violence is an expression of power and control over individuals or groups because of their gender. It is a broad term that encompasses domestic, family and sexual violence. Gender-related violence, gender-based violence (GBV), sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and violence against women (VAW) are other commonly used terms in this field. However, while it is clear that women and children are disproportionately affected, we use ‘gendered violence’ with the acknowledgement that men, women, elders and youth can be victims and perpetrators.

In addition, we acknowledge that gendered violence can be experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people. Gendered violence is not limited to physical or sexual violence. It can include a range of behaviours used to intimidate, coerce, harass and control another person, including financial abuse.

We hope to increase our sensitivity to all forms of violence by acknowledging our personal and corporate power and naming abuse of power when observed.

Feature Image: Sr Janet Palafox ibvm with former UN IBVM NGO Intern Francesca Torcasio Barberis at the UN ‘Orange the World’ event.