Gender based violence “GBV” does not spare the young. For many children around the world, violence rooted in power imbalance, gender norms and social silence begins far too early. The consequences often extend well beyond the moment of harm shaping their mental health, relationships, education and futures.
A childhood interrupted: What GBV looks like at an early age
Gender-based violence in childhood can take many forms:
Sexual abuse by family members, caregivers, or authority figures, physical violence disproportionately affecting girls, child marriage, which predominantly affects girls under 18, female genital mutilation (FGM) and psychological abuse and coercion based on gender roles.
While boys can also be victims of GBV, girls are more frequently targeted, especially in societies with rigid gender hierarchies and deep-rooted cultural practices.
Voices from the Shadows
Aisha, 17, Kenya (name changed): “I was married when I was 13. My husband was 34. I wanted to finish school, but they said I had to be a wife. He beat me when I refused to have sex. I had no choice.”
Emmanuel, 25, Rwanda: “I was 9 when my uncle started touching me. I did not know it was abuse until I was 16. I still cannot trust people. I still dream about it.”
Sofia, 19, Morocco: “FGM was done to me when I was 7. I remember the pain. I cannot forget it. I still struggle during intimacy. It affects everything.”
These are not isolated cases they are echoes of a pattern repeated across continents.
The lifelong impact of childhood GBV
GBV in early life leaves both visible and invisible wounds:
Mental health: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm, suicidal ideation.
Education: School dropout, poor performance, avoidance of school due to trauma or stigma.
Health: STIs, complications from FGM, early pregnancy, chronic pain.
Social relationships: Difficulty trusting others, forming healthy relationships, or setting boundaries.
Cycle of violence: Victims may become more vulnerable to violence in adulthood or struggle with parenting.
1 in 4 girls worldwide experience sexual violence before the age of 18 (UNICEF). 650 million women alive today were married before age 18 many of them forced (UNFPA). Over 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM in 30 countries (WHO).
Dr. Stella Uwase, explains: “Children who experience GBV live with complex trauma. It rewires their brains. They may shut down emotionally or become aggressive. But with the right therapy, support, and community care, healing is possible.”
She also highlights the importance of early intervention: “Most survivors never speak out. Schools, communities, and health centers must become safe spaces for disclosure and support. Silence is what allows GBV to thrive.”
Despite increasing awareness, the path to safety and justice remains difficult:
Cultural taboos: Many communities deny or hide abuse to protect family reputation.
Lack of child-friendly legal systems: Children are often retraumatized in court settings.
Underreporting: Fear, shame, or dependency on the abuser prevents children from speaking out.
Limited mental health services: Especially in rural or conflict-affected areas.
Childhood should be a time of safety and growth, not trauma. The impact of GBV during these formative years can last a lifetime but with awareness, protection and survivor-centered support, recovery and resilience are possible.
BY KAYITESI Ange
