Why prevention

Given its high prevalence rates and negative consequences, there is an urgent need to prevent and respond to all forms of violence against women globally. To do so effectively, we need to be clear about the difference between prevention of and response to violence. Both are important but the objectives of and types of interventions to prevent and respond to violence differ.

Preventing VAW means stopping violence before it starts, or reducing the frequency and severity of further episodes of violence where it has previously occurred. This is different from response, which is about providing support and services to individuals who have experienced violence.