Physical violence remains largely underreported partly because of the stigma that is attached to it and because social norms allow it to go unpunished. Physical assault on women and girls is widespread. Situations of humanitarian crises and displacement may exacerbate existing violence, such as by intimate partners, as well as non-partner physical violence, and may also lead to new forms of violence against women. Physical violence cuts across cultures, levels of education, income, religion and ethnicity. Yet, physical violence remains widely underreported due to societal pressure to keep silent, victim-blaming, prevailing stigma, and internalized acceptance of violence.
Break The Silence!
- Speak up if you have experienced any form of violence.
- Listen if someone tells you about having experienced any form of violence.
- Report to the authorities so that perpetrators, whoever they are, do not go unpunished.
- Support survivors of physical violence by telling them that you believe them when they disclose, including children. Holding a space of safety for them will help them in their healing process.
