Accelerating justice expanding prevention and strengthening accountability: the need for G20 action to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF)

Abstract

Gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) are among the most widespread human rights violations, devastating lives across every country, culture, and class (UNICEF, n.d.). In 2023, it was estimated that approximately 51,000 women were killed by an intimate partner or a family member globally (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime & United Nations Women, 2024). Despite years of global commitments and progress, millions still live in fear – denied justice, safety, and dignity. GBVF is not only a personal tragedy; it also weakens the social fabric, impedes progress, and drains up to 3.7% of GDP in some countries (Ouedraogo & Stenzel, 2021). It is a collective crisis warranting urgent, united action. In recent times, regressive policies and a weakening global commitment to human rights have reinforced patriarchal power, inequality and unhealthy masculinities – while eroding protections for vulnerable groups. The escalation of all forms of GBVF reflects deeply interconnected systems of discrimination and oppression (CIVICUS, 2025; UNHCR n.d.). Addressing GBVF requires integrated and intersectional solutions rooted in women’s reproductive and mental health, justice, expanded prevention, and accountability. This policy brief calls for bold policy shifts and systemic, transformative change to support national, regional and international advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring the protection and safeguarding of women and girls against GBVF.