Nature and Extent of Gender-Based Violence and Its Negative Reproductive Health Consequences amongst Women in Nepal

Shyam Giri, Nuwakot Adharsha Campus
Mahesh Puri, Center for Research on Environment Health and Population Activities (CREHPA)
Govinda P. Dahal, University of Southampton

This paper examines the nature, extent of gender-based violence (GBV) and its reproductive health consequences amongst women in Nepal. Information are drawn from various published and unpublished reports, daily newspapers and the 2001 Nepal Demographic Health Survey. Findings suggest that the prevalence of GBV ranges between 40 and 80 percent. Forms of violence significantly vary according to the life stages of women and girls, their demographic and socio-cultural background. The Terai women were more likely than other women to face GBV as a result of dowry culture, whereas hill women were more likely than others to face trafficking for commercial sex. The perpetrators also vary according to the types of GBV. The data indicates that mental tension, depression, unwanted pregnancy, abortion, STIs and HIV/AIDS were some of the major negative consequences of GBV. Findings suggest the need of culturally acceptable intervention program including modification in the existing law on GBV.