Young people are transforming GBV intervention and prevention work, starting conversations in new ways and challenging the beliefs and power structures that inform and fuel gender-based violence. From fighting sexist dress codes to growing consent culture in their schools and communities, young leaders are driving critical changes in how we think about and respond to gender-based violence.
Their leadership and unique perspectives are especially essential as young people experience gender-based violence at an alarmingly high rate.
- 29% of young women 15-25 report having experienced intimate partner violence, significantly higher than those over 25.
- This rate is higher for people with disabilities, Black and racialized people, 2SLGBTQ+ people and Indigenous people.
- 70% of trans youth report having experienced sexual harassment.
If you’re a young person, or caring adult looking for resources on how to support a survivor (or yourself) or push to end GBV in your community, take a look at these tools:
- Is My Relationship Healthy?
- The Advocacy Toolkit Pod Cast – World YWCA
- The 5 Ds of Bystander Intervention – Right to Be
Here are some of the ways YWCAs are taking action to support young survivors and amplify their leadership in ending GBV (and how you can help)