Gender Based Violence and Mental Health: The Case of Malala Yousafazi

10-07-2024

Shahad Ghannam

Legal Human Rights Researcher,

Global Human Rights Defence

Violence against women is both a severe public health issue and a violation of human rights, affecting women’s physical, mental, and reproductive health globally. Studies reveal that approximately one in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, predominantly from intimate partners (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024).

Malala Yousafzai, who became a global advocate for girls’ education following a Taliban assassination attempt in 2012, symbolises the struggle against gender-based oppression. Despite severe injuries and profound psychological trauma, she has continued to fight for the educational rights of girls worldwide (Malala Fund, n.d.).

Gender-based violence significantly increases the risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This form of violence not only has immediate harmful effects but can also lead to long-term psychiatric conditions, which affect not just the victims but their families and communities as well (WHO, 2024; European Institute for Gender Equality [EIGE], 2021).

In response to the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, significant strides have been made in strengthening legal frameworks and international policies. Instruments like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 5, aim to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, while also calling for the elimination of all forms of violence against them. The global commitment to these goals highlights the legal obligation of states to protect women and girls from violence and ensure their mental and physical well-being (United Nations [UN], 2017).

After her recovery, Malala took an active role in promoting the importance of education for girls as a fundamental right. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her ongoing advocacy work highlight the need for supportive services for women and girls who have experienced similar traumas (Malala Fund, n.d.; UN, 2017).

The pervasive nature of gender-based violence calls for a comprehensive global response, involving prevention, improved healthcare services, and policies that promote gender equality. Effective prevention and responsive measures, including education and legal reforms, are crucial in combating the scourge of violence and supporting the mental health of survivors (WHO, 2022).

Malala Yousafzai’s journey from a survivor of violence to a leading activist highlights the critical intersection of gender-based violence and mental health. It underscores the urgent need to address these issues collectively to ensure the well-being and empowerment of women and girls globally. Continuing to support educational and legal reforms while providing comprehensive mental health care are vital steps toward healing and prevention.

Sources and Further Readings:

European Institute for Gender Equality. (2021). Gender Equality Index 2021 report: Gender-based violence. Retrieved from <https://eige.europa.eu/publications-resources/toolkits-guides/gender-equality-index-2021-report/gender-based-violence?language_content_entity=en>.

Malala Fund. (n.d.). Malala’s story. Retrieved from <https://malala.org/malalas-story?sc=header>.

United Nations. (2017). Malala Yousafzai. Retrieved July 10, 2024, from <https://www.un.org/en/messengers-peace/malala-yousafzai>.

World Health Organization. (2022). Preventing intimate partner violence improves mental health. Retrieved from <https://www.who.int/news/item/06-10-2022-preventing-intimate-partner-violence-improves-mental-health>.

World Health Organization. (2024). Violence against women. Retrieved July 10, 2024, from <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women>.