From July 4th-14th 2006, International Alert conducted a mapping of the incidence of GBV and the programmes that are being implemented to address it in Sierra Leone on behalf of Irish Aid. Historically, women have been discriminated against and are heavily under-represented in the traditionally male-dominated political and socio-economic decision-making structures of Sierra Leone. Gender inequalities are prevalent throughout society, with women being more likely to be illiterate and suffer extreme poverty; their rights are frequently violated, and they have little access to resources and opportunities. Gender-based violence (GBV) in its physical and structural forms is endemic in Sierra Leone. It is a security concern that also has broader
economic and political consequences. Therefore, failing to engage with the causes and effects of GBV will inevitably have long-term consequences for peacebuilding and development in Sierra Leone.