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Gabon

Writer's picture: ThriveThrive

Population size: 

2,172,580 [1]

Number of people experiencing domestic abuse each year:

Prevalence of domestic violence against women (lifetime) 49%. [2]

The 2012 national health and demographic survey had demonstrated that 21% of women had been victims of sexual violence, of which less than half sought help and assistance equated to approximately 28% increase by 2015. [3]

No research on male victims or other gender identities.

Cost of domestic abuse to the economy each year:

No research.

Estimated % change due to COVID-19:

No research.


Current law and policy:

Gabon commits to continuing its awareness raising campaign. However, a lack of reliable national statistics undermines governmental ability to demonstrate the impact of this strategy. Domestic violence is illegal, but women rarely ever file complaints due to shame, fear of reprisal, legal illiteracy and the limited number of judicial structures, especially in rural areas. Police intervention in domestic violence cases is rare. In 2015, the government established a counselling group and national helpline to provide support for abuse victims. Further, the government has also led an awareness-raising campaign through publishing brochures, radio and television broadcasts and lectures. 

However, there is no national action plan to address domestic violence nor are there any government owned shelters for domestic violence victims. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women issued its concluding observations in 2015. However, because the national statistical system is insufficient there are not reliable statistics and data on domestic violence and the impact of any government strategies in Gabon. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government provided hotlines are allegedly not receiving calls. 

Public spending - 5.3% of GDP on violence containment (excluding individuals’ expenditures and indirect costs such as lost wages resulting from lower productivity or absenteeism.) [4]

Due to COVID-19 a funding gap of $60,000 has been identified by UNICEF. [5]


Frontline Services:

 

Sources


[1] The World Bank, (1).


Further Reading


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