Sexual exploitation and abuse: A form of GBV

Gender-based violence is an umbrella term for any harmful act that is perpetrated against a person’s will, and that is based on socially ascribed (gender) differences between males and females. Around the world, GBV disproportionately affects women and girls because of their subordinate status to men and boys. As such, the term is most often used to highlight women and girls’ particular vulnerability to violence because of gender inequality.

Worldwide, about 80% of all crimes against property are committed by men, as are 95% of crimes involving violence. Women are much more vulnerable to violence within intimate and familial relationships, whereas men are more likely to be attacked by a stranger or acquaintance.

Studies indicate that on average over 90% of perpetrators of sexual violence against women are men, and in the case of male victims, between 63% and 86% of the perpetrators are men.

Sexual exploitation and abuse is a form of GBV. Anyone can commit sexual exploitation and abuse, but the most likely perpetrators are males and the most likely victims are females. SEA is a violation of human rights and an abuse of power. Those with more power are more likely to perpetrate; those with less power are vulnerable to becoming victims.

Humanitarian aid workers, peacekeepers and others working in development settings virtually always have more power over those we are there to serve. Sexual exploitation and abuse not only undermines the image and effectiveness of our work, it also has serious consequences for the individuals and communities affected.

Sometimes, it happens that girls at schools are forced to have relationships with their lecturers or else they will fail in the exam. Some managers at work places as well as in the IDP camps take the opportunity of their vulnerability to help those girls in exchange of something.