Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals, particularly women and girls, in Nigeria. It takes various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual violence, and remains a significant barrier to gender equality and human development (Shittu & Abubakar, 2023). In response, the Nigerian government has introduced several policies aimed at addressing GBV, such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) and the National Gender Policy. At the local level, these policies are meant to ensure that victims receive protection, justice, and support, while also working to change societal attitudes that perpetuate violence (Yusuf & Hassan, 2024). Gwadabawa Local Government in Sokoto State, an area with a high prevalence of GBV, has been impacted by these national policies, but implementation has often been uneven. This study seeks to assess the effectiveness of public policies on GBV prevention in Gwadabawa and explore how these policies have impacted the local community’s efforts to combat violence.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the existence of policies aimed at preventing GBV, cases of violence continue to be reported in Gwadabawa Local Government, with women and girls often suffering in silence due to cultural, social, and legal barriers (Adeyemi & Faruk, 2024). The challenges in policy implementation include insufficient awareness of legal frameworks, inadequate support services for survivors, and the lack of a comprehensive approach to tackling GBV at the local level. This study will examine how public policies on GBV prevention have been implemented in Gwadabawa and assess their effectiveness in reducing incidents of violence.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the impact of public policies on gender-based violence prevention in Gwadabawa Local Government.
2. To examine the challenges in the implementation of GBV prevention policies in Gwadabawa.
3. To propose recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of GBV prevention policies at the local level.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What impact have public policies had on gender-based violence prevention in Gwadabawa Local Government?
2. What challenges exist in the implementation of these policies in Gwadabawa?
3. What recommendations can be made to improve GBV prevention efforts in Gwadabawa Local Government?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
1. Public policies have had a positive impact on reducing gender-based violence in Gwadabawa Local Government.
2. Implementation challenges such as inadequate resources and cultural barriers hinder the effectiveness of GBV prevention policies.
3. Increased community awareness and support services for victims will improve the effectiveness of GBV prevention policies.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of public policies in preventing GBV in a local Nigerian context. It will contribute to the discourse on improving gender equality and women’s rights, providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and local authorities. The study will also support efforts by civil society organizations working to address GBV and ensure that policies are effectively implemented and result in tangible improvements for survivors.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Gwadabawa Local Government in Sokoto State, and the policies assessed are those related to GBV prevention. It does not cover other forms of gender violence or other local governments in Sokoto State. Limitations may include challenges in gathering data from victims due to the sensitivity of the issue, as well as potential biases in government reports.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Violence directed at individuals based on their gender, often affecting women and girls, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
• Public Policies: Government strategies and regulations designed to address societal issues, including laws and frameworks for preventing and responding to GBV.
• Prevention: Efforts to reduce the occurrence of gender-based violence through education, legal frameworks, and support services.
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