GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT GENDER BASED VIOLENCE

Zambia has several laws and policies that aim to protect victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and support survivors. These laws encompass various forms of GBV, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and economic violence.

What are my Rights?

  • The Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act No. 1 of 2011 is a comprehensive law aimed at preventing and protecting against GBV. It criminalizes various forms of GBV, including domestic violence, sexual violence, and economic abuse.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Protection Orders: Victims can apply for protection orders that restrain the perpetrator from contact, harassment, or further abuse.
    • Safe Shelters: The Act mandates the establishment of shelters where survivors can find temporary refuge and support.
    • Counseling and Support Services: The law provides for counseling services to help victims recover and reintegrate.
  • Reporting Mechanisms: Victims or witnesses can report GBV incidents to the police or a designated protection officer.
  • Zambia’s Penal Code criminalizes acts of assault, rape, defilement, and other forms of violence that often overlap with GBV.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Criminalization of Rape and Defilement: The Penal Code defines and criminalizes sexual offenses, including rape and defilement of minors, with severe penalties.
    • Prosecution of Domestic Violence: Assault, battery, and other forms of physical violence can lead to criminal charges under the Penal Code.
    • Consent and Protection: The law emphasizes the protection of individuals from forced or non-consensual sexual acts.
  • The Marriage Act provides legal guidelines for marriage and includes provisions aimed at preventing forced or child marriages, which are forms of GBV.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Minimum Age Requirement: The Act sets the legal age for marriage to prevent child marriages, which disproportionately affect girls and expose them to abuse.
    • Consent in Marriage: The law requires consent from both parties, helping to prevent forced or coercive marriages.
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  • The Juveniles Act provides protections for minors, particularly vulnerable girls and young women who may be at risk of abuse or exploitation.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Protection from Exploitation and Abuse: The Act criminalizes exploitation, neglect, and abuse of minors.
    • Support for Child Survivors of GBV: There are measures to ensure safe custody, counseling, and support services for minors who are GBV victims.
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  • The Child Code Act provides additional protection for children against abuse, exploitation, and harmful practices such as child marriage.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Protection Against Exploitation and Abuse: Specific provisions protect children from exploitation, trafficking, and forced labor.
    • Child Welfare Services: The Act mandates support services for child survivors of GBV, including shelters and counseling.
  • The Employment Code Act includes provisions against workplace harassment and discrimination, which can be forms of GBV.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Prohibition of Sexual Harassment: Employers are required to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
    • Complaint Mechanisms: Victims of workplace harassment can file complaints with relevant labor authorities.
    • Employer Obligations: Employers must implement measures to ensure a safe work environment and provide avenues for redress.
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  • If you or someone you know is a victim of GBV, the following resources are available:

    • Police Protection Units: These units are equipped to handle cases of GBV and provide support to survivors.
    • One-Stop Centers: There are several One-Stop Centers across Zambia where victims can access medical, legal, and counseling services.
    • Helplines: National helplines and hotlines provide immediate support and guidance to survivors.
    • Legal Aid Clinics: Organizations such as Legal Aid Board of Zambia and Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) offer legal support to victims.
    • NGO Support: NGOs like YWCA Zambia, Women for Change, and Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) work extensively to support GBV survivors.

What is GBV?

Gender-Based Violence refers to harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender. This can include physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and economic violence, as well as harassment and discrimination. GBV often disproportionately affects women, girls, and marginalized groups.

The main types of GBV include:

  • Physical Violence: Physical harm or abuse, such as hitting, slapping, or assault.
  • Sexual Violence: Unwanted sexual contact or behavior, including harassment, assault, and rape.
  • Emotional/Psychological Violence: Actions that harm a person’s mental well-being, including threats, insults, and isolation.
  • Economic Violence: Financial control or exploitation, such as preventing someone from accessing their own money or forcing them to become financially dependent.
  • Cultural/Structural Violence: Discriminatory practices and policies that reinforce gender inequality and harm.

GBV can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, though it predominantly affects women, girls, and marginalized communities. However, men, boys, and gender-diverse individuals can also be victims of GBV.

Warning signs of GBV can include:

  • Unexplained injuries or physical signs of abuse.
  • Withdrawal from social situations or isolation.
  • Sudden changes in behavior, mood, or personality.
  • Anxiety, depression, or fearfulness, particularly around a specific person.
  • Unusual financial control or restrictions on resources.

If you or someone you know is experiencing GBV, consider:

  • Contacting a trusted person or professional for immediate support.
  • Reaching out to local or national helplines, crisis centers, or shelters.
  • Seeking help from community organizations that specialize in GBV support and counseling.
  • Documenting incidents and keeping records if safe to do so, for future support or legal action.

There are so many shelters or safe spaces where survivors of GBV can find temporary housing, protection, and support around Zambia with the help of GBV based organisation. Our Knowledge Center includes a list of verified safe spaces and emergency contact information.

Experiencing GBV can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and difficulty in trusting others. Survivors often need mental health support, counseling, and community resources to begin healing.

Yes, many NGO’s have capacity and laws protecting individuals from GBV and offer legal support, including restraining orders, legal representation, and assistance with filing reports. Contact local authorities or a legal aid organization to understand your rights.

Yes, men and boys can experience GBV, although it may be less reported due to stigma or cultural beliefs. Male survivors can access the same support and resources available to women, including counseling, legal aid, and shelter options.

If someone you know is experiencing GBV, you can:

  • Listen without judgment and provide emotional support.
  • Encourage them to seek professional help or reach out to a support organization.
  • Help them create a safety plan, if necessary.
  • Respect their decisions and understand that leaving an abusive situation can be complex and difficult.

Reporting GBV varies by location, but generally, you can:

  • Contact local authorities (e.g., police, social services).
  • Reach out to GBV helplines or support organizations.
  • File a report with community leaders or social welfare departments.
  • Our Knowledge Center offers resources on how and where to report GBV in your area.

While it is never a victim’s fault, there are steps that can enhance personal safety:

  • Create a personal safety plan, particularly if you feel threatened or unsafe.
  • Build a support network of trusted friends, family, or neighbors.
  • Be cautious with personal information online or with people you do not fully trust.
  • Know your rights and stay informed about local resources.
  • Resources include:
    • Hotlines and helplines for immediate support.
    • Shelters and safe houses for temporary refuge.
    • Counseling and therapy services for mental health recovery.
    • Legal aid for understanding and pursuing your rights.
    • Our Knowledge Center provides a directory of local and national resources.

 

GBV stems from power imbalances, societal norms, cultural beliefs, and a lack of accountability. Preventing GBV requires community education, legal action, support services, and challenging harmful gender stereotypes.