GPF Tanzania representative speaks to a youth club about gender-based violence.

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is more than a violation of human rights; it is a persistent threat to the health, stability, and progress of individuals, families, communities, nations, and the world. Its effects ripple outward, leaving deep scars across generations and obstructing efforts toward peace and development.

This abuse leaves an indelible mark on children, both as direct victims and as witnesses within their homes or communities. In Tanzania, the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) reported a disturbing rise in violence against children; 464 documented cases in 2023, up from 350 in 2022.

Victims included children as young as one year old.

Exposure to such violence leads to trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and often a disrupted path in education and life. For many, the pain of abuse is compounded by silence, stigma, and a lack of support.

In addition, GBV erodes the foundation of trust and safety that families should provide. Domestic violence, sexual abuse, and emotional manipulation create toxic environments that harm not only the victims but also other family members who live in fear or confusion. Children growing up in abusive homes may internalize violence as normal or struggle with emotional instability and insecurity, continuing cycles of harm into the next generation.

When GBV is prevalent, communities suffer from a breakdown of social cohesion. Cultural norms that permit or ignore violence reinforce discrimination and silence survivors. Moreover, societal attitudes that reinforce harmful gender roles and cultural practices, such as early marriage or exclusion of persons with disabilities, contribute to inequality and alienation.

On nations, GBV has economic costs through increased healthcare burdens, decreased productivity, and lost educational opportunities. It weakens a nation’s human capital, especially when young women and girls are denied their right to learn, grow, and contribute fully to society. Nations also bear the social cost of instability and unrest that arises when citizens feel unsafe and unheard.

Youth Peace Club shows support for ending gender-based violence.

Globally, GBV impedes progress toward achieving equality, peace, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is a barrier to inclusive development and a reflection of the persistent global challenge of gender inequality.

Addressing GBV is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in global peace and prosperity.

To respond to the rising tide of GBV, the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Tanzania facilitated an interactive session with students at Sino Secondary School to raise awareness, spark conversations, and empower youth to stand against violence. With the support of school leadership and facilitators like Peter Edson from GPF, students explored the various forms of GBV—physical, sexual, psychological, and economic—and how they affect individuals and society.

Through open dialogue, students shared personal experiences and reflected on cultural practices that perpetuate violence. One student, Farida, pointed out how societal norms often suppress women’s rights and limit opportunities for girls. “Today’s culture exposes teenagers to negative attitudes regarding gender roles. This undermines the development of women, who often face limited access to education, early marriage, and forced circumcision,” she said.

Another, Mubarak, emphasized how people with disabilities face additional layers of discrimination and exclusion. These conversations marked an important step toward breaking the silence and inspiring students to be change-makers in their communities.

“Providing GBV education to youth is essential to unlocking individual potential and reducing inequality,” said a GPF staff member, “By educating the next generation, we equip them with the knowledge to challenge cultural barriers and create positive change.”

Tanzanian students participate in a peacebuilding program focused on ending gender-based violence.

While laws and policies are essential, lasting solutions to GBV begin at home. This is why GPF and Global Peace Women (GPW) prioritize strengthening families as a cornerstone of peacebuilding. GPW programs promote values-based education, character development, and positive parenting to build family environments rooted in mutual respect, empathy, and equality.

By empowering parents and youth to challenge harmful cultural practices and embrace gender equality, GPF and GPW foster resilient families that reject violence and become agents of change in their communities. Their work demonstrates that the family is a sacred space; it is the first school of love and peace, where future leaders learn how to respect others and resolve conflict with dignity.

Gender-based violence threatens the well-being of individuals and undermines the fabric of society at every level. But with informed, empowered youth and strong, values-driven families, we can reverse the tide. The work of GPF and GPW in nurturing safe, respectful, and united families offers a powerful blueprint for ending GBV and building a world where every person can thrive in dignity and peace.

Learn more about GPW’s work in strengthening families and GBV Prevention Programs.