Gender-based violence (GBV) is a major public health, equality, and human rights issue, which cuts across the whole of society. It encompasses a spectrum of abuse including domestic abuse, sexual assault, stalking, commercial sexual exploitation and harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage and so-called ‘honour’ crimes.

GBV cuts across all boundaries of age, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion and belief and socio-economic inequality. One in three women will experience intimate partner violence or sexual violence during her lifetime.

A multi-sectoral approach is required to prevention. We will discuss legislative and societal changes required, and how public systems can be strengthened to better respond to victims.

Panel

MP Jess Phillips

Nimco Ali - co-founder of Daughters of Eve, writer and activist

Sarah Green - Co-director End violence against women coalition

Heather Harvey - led Amnesty International UK’s Stop violence against women campaign

chair - Dr Sonia Adesara - co-chair young Medical Women International Association

Come along to what is likely to be a hard-hitting and lively discussion. We will explore the consequences of funding cuts for refuges and legal aid for domestic violence victims. GBV within ethnic communities is often more hidden, we will explore the legislation and specialist support required to combat forced marriages, honour-based violence, and FGM. How to best support migrant women, who may be marginalized or have no recourse to public funds. The local policy changes and international coordination required to prevent human trafficking and sexual exploitation.