Gender-based Violence

Here’s how we’re helping keep girls safe

The fear of violence robs girls of their freedom to move freely in their own city. It makes emergencies and conflict more dangerous. It excludes them from fully participating in a society that belongs just as much to them as it does to their male peers.

Plan International is working with girls, boys, communities and decision makers to build a safer world for girls. We are including the voices of young people, especially those most vulnerable in the redesign of cities. We are also introducing the world’s first open source, rights-based digital birth and death registration software products to protect the rights of children.

From grassroots advocacy led by girls to child protection programs in areas of conflict, we’re eroding the attitudes that allow violence against girls to flourish.

And best of all, we’re centring girls as agents of change in their own communities.

The role of men in ending violence against women

Protecting girls from violence is a core part of our work. But truly overcoming gender inequality is only possible by including boys and men. That’s why we work with people of all genders to discourage norms and behaviours that perpetuate violence and encourage healthy relationships between men and women from a young age.

By raising boys to know that violence is never acceptable, we’re eradicating the sexism and misogyny that can fuel it and raising a new generation that says no to violence in all its forms.

Our research

All of our overseas program work is informed by evidence, and we’re always learning. Read our latest reports and publications on gender-based violence and for adolescent girls in crises.