Overview

Violence against women is any act of gender-based harm that results in physical, sexual, psychological or economic suffering for women and girls. It can occur in public or private settings and may be perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, acquaintances or strangers. Many authorities describe such behavior as a manifestation of historically unequal power relations between women and men; some contexts treat it as a form of hate crime when the victim is targeted because of gender. For further contextual definitions see definitions and classifications and perspectives that frame it as a hate-based offense.

Forms and characteristics

Violence against women appears in multiple, sometimes overlapping forms. Common categories include:

  • Intimate partner and domestic violence: physical, emotional or economic abuse occurring within households or family relationships (domestic contexts).
  • Sexual violence and rape: coerced sex or sexual assault committed by partners or others (rape, sexual violence).
  • Sexual harassment: unwanted sexual advances, comments or conduct in workplaces, schools or public spaces (harassment).
  • Harmful traditional practices: practices like forced marriage or female genital mutilation that cause lasting harm (forced marriage & FGM).
  • Economic and psychological abuse: control of resources, threats, isolation and coercion that undermine autonomy and well-being.

Causes, risk factors and impacts

Root causes are complex and often interrelated: gender inequality, discriminatory social norms, poverty, weak legal protections and conflict or displacement can increase risk. Violence has short- and long-term consequences for physical and mental health, economic participation and social inclusion. Survivors may face stigma, barriers to reporting and limited access to justice or support services.

History and international recognition

International institutions and human-rights instruments have increasingly recognized violence against women as a distinct policy issue. The United Nations and other bodies have produced declarations and guidance that identify gender-based violence as both a human-rights violation and a public-health concern. Regional treaties and conventions have also sought to harmonize prevention and response measures; for example, European institutions adopted a comprehensive legal framework addressing domestic and gender-based violence (council action, regional convention).

Effective responses combine legal protections, survivor-centered services (health, counselling, shelter and legal aid), education to shift social norms, and coordinated multiagency action. Laws that criminalize violence, restrain perpetrators and provide protection orders are important, but enforcement, training for police and courts, and accessible support services determine real impact. Community programs, school curricula and economic empowerment can reduce vulnerability. For policy tools and program examples see international guidance and resources on prevention (responses to sexual violence).

Distinctions and notable facts

Not all gender-based violence affects women in the same way: intersecting factors such as race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, migration status and poverty shape both risk and access to services. Men and boys can also experience gender-based violence, but the term "violence against women" highlights patterns tied to gender inequality and systemic discrimination. Addressing it requires legal reform, social change and sustained investment in survivor support and prevention (prevention efforts, support services, cultural interventions, data and research).