The effect of gender-based violence on the realisation of the right to health for women in Kenya

Abstract

Gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue in Kenya which significantly impacts women in Kenya disproportionately affecting their realisation of the right to health. The study recognises that GBV is a multi-faceted issue which impacts the right to health wholistically meaning it impacts the right to physical, mental, and reproductive health of victims. Although there are various legal and policy frameworks in place to combat GBV, we are still grappling with the effects of GBV in Kenya and enforcement of these legislations is still a challenge.

The research highlights the major causes of GBV ranging from cultural norms, legal and systematic barriers, and economic barriers. Ultimately, the paper propounds that the realisation of the right to health for women in Kenya is significantly impacted in the face of GBV. It is critical that we implement a victim-centred approaches in the healthcare system for victims of GBV. The findings of the research underscore the need for an integrated and multi-sectoral intervention to combat GBV and promote equitable access to health for all women. It is vital that we demystify the myths behind GBV especially the normalisation of GBV in society. The research highlights the need for economic empowerment of women as a way to combat GBV because economic dependence on their perpetrators results in continuous subjection to GBV.