Gender-based violence is a pervasive and deeply rooted issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. This course aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of GBV, its root causes, and its impact on individuals, families, and societies. Participants will explore various aspects of GBV prevention, response, and support, as well as strategies for promoting gender equality and empowering survivors. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical exercises, participants will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to address GBV effectively in their respective contexts.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the Dynamics of Gender-Based Violence: Gain insights into the various forms of GBV, including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, trafficking, and harmful practices. Explore the underlying factors and social norms that perpetuate GBV, as well as its intersections with other forms of discrimination and marginalization.
2. Enhance GBV Prevention and Response Skills: Explore strategies and best practices for preventing and responding to GBV incidents. Learn how to recognize signs of GBV, provide survivor-centered support, and facilitate access to essential services such as healthcare, legal aid, and psychosocial support.
3. Promote Gender Equality and Empowerment: Explore the role of gender norms, power dynamics, and social structures in perpetuating GBV. Learn how to challenge harmful stereotypes, promote gender equality, and empower individuals and communities to address GBV effectively.
4. Strengthen Multi-Sectoral Collaboration: Understand the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing GBV, including partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. Learn how to coordinate response efforts and share resources to provide comprehensive support to survivors.
5. Advocate for Policy and Systemic Change: Explore advocacy strategies for advancing policies and laws that protect against GBV and promote gender equality. Learn how to engage policymakers, raise awareness, and mobilize support for systemic changes that address the root causes of GBV and ensure justice for survivors.

Organization Benefits:

1. Enhanced Capacity to Address GBV: Equip organizations with the knowledge and skills to effectively address GBV within their communities and workplaces, contributing to safer and more inclusive environments for all.
2. Improved Support for Survivors: Implement survivor-centered approaches to GBV prevention and response, ensuring that survivors receive timely and appropriate support services to aid their recovery and healing process.
3. Strengthened Gender Equality Initiatives: Integrate GBV prevention and response efforts into broader gender equality initiatives, promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and gender equity within the organization and beyond.
4. Enhanced Collaboration and Networking: Foster partnerships and collaborations with other stakeholders working on GBV prevention and response, leveraging resources and expertise to maximize impact and reach.
5. Reduced Costs and Liabilities: By addressing GBV proactively, organizations can mitigate the social, financial, and legal costs associated with GBV incidents, including lost productivity, absenteeism, and reputational damage.

Target Participants:

This course is designed for professionals working in various sectors, including but not limited to healthcare, social work, law enforcement, education, humanitarian aid, and community development. It is suitable for individuals involved in GBV prevention and response efforts, including frontline workers, program managers, policymakers, and advocates.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Understanding Gender-Based Violence

• Introduction to GBV: Definitions, forms, and prevalence
• Root causes and contributing factors of GBV
• Gender norms, stereotypes, and power dynamics

Module 2: GBV Prevention and Response Strategies

• Prevention approaches and interventions
• Survivor-centered support and services
• Legal frameworks and access to justice for survivors

Module 3: Gender Equality and Empowerment

• Gender mainstreaming and gender-responsive programming
• Promoting women's rights and agency
• Engaging men and boys in GBV prevention

Module 4: Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

• Coordinating response efforts among stakeholders
• Building partnerships and networks
• Sharing resources and best practices

Module 5: Advocacy and Policy Change

• Advocacy strategies for GBV prevention and response
• Policy and legislative frameworks
• Mobilizing support for systemic change