Empowering Bystanders to Act Against Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that requires the collective effort of individuals, communities, and institutions to combat. Bystanders—those who witness acts of violence, harassment, or abuse—play a critical role in addressing such incidents. However, acting as a bystander can often be challenging, as people may not always know what to do, what to say, or whether they should intervene. Here’s how bystanders can make a difference, why they sometimes hesitate to act, and how to overcome these barriers.

What Bystanders Can Do

  1. Provide Immediate Support
  • Offer the victim a safe space to talk. Ask if they feel comfortable speaking where you are or if they prefer to move to another location.
  • Listen more than you speak. Acknowledge their experience without judgment.
  • Offer practical help, such as water, tissues, or a place to sit.
  1. Validate Their Experience
  • Assure them that what happened is not their fault and that they are not to blame.
  • Use supportive language, such as, “I’m sorry this happened to you,” and “I believe you.”
  1. Ask How You Can Help
  • Instead of assuming what they need, ask directly: “How can I support you?”
  • Share information about relevant support services, ensuring the information is accurate and up-to-date.
  1. Respect Their Choices
  • If they are not ready to act or share more details, respect their decision. Let them take the time they need to decide what’s best for them.

What Bystanders Should Avoid

  • Don’t Blame the Victim: Never suggest that the victim could have avoided the situation or that they were responsible for what happened.
  • Don’t Overreact: Stay calm to provide effective support.
  • Don’t Force Disclosure: Avoid pressuring the victim to share more than they are comfortable with.
  • Don’t Compare: Each experience is unique, and comparisons can minimize the victim’s feelings.

Why Bystanders May Hesitate to Act

Bystanders often face internal or external barriers that prevent them from intervening:

  1. Lack of Knowledge
    Many people are unsure what constitutes gender-based violence or how to recognize it.
  2. Fear of Consequences
    Concerns about their safety or being judged by others can deter action.
  3. Social Norms
    In some cultures, gender-based violence is normalized, leading to a lack of urgency to intervene.
  4. Previous Negative Experiences
    Some bystanders may have faced backlash in prior situations, discouraging them from acting again.
  5. Uncertainty About Their Role
    Bystanders may feel they lack the skills or authority to help.

Overcoming Barriers

  1. Educate Yourself: Learn about gender-based violence, its signs, and ways to respond effectively.
  2. Seek Support: If you’re unsure how to help, contact organizations specializing in gender-based violence for guidance.
  3. Focus on Small Actions: Even small gestures, like listening or offering a kind word, can make a significant difference.
  4. Collaborate: Encourage others to act with you to create a collective response.

Final Thoughts

Bystanders have the power to challenge gender-based violence by offering support and creating a culture of accountability. Remember, your role is not to “fix” the situation but to provide empathy, validation, and access to resources. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a safer and more inclusive society.

If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence, reach out to trusted support services or community organizations for help. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and build a future rooted in respect and equality.