Are Schools Safe and Gender Equal Spaces? Findings from a baseline study of school related gender-based violence in five countries in Asia

This study is the product of a regional programme in Asia, led jointly by Plan International and the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW). Based on both qualitative and quantitative data from Cambodia, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, and Vietnam, the study seeks to establish a baseline of understanding on the nature, extent, and response to school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV).

The results reveal pervasive violence that contributes to feelings of being unsafe among both girls and boys. Schools are found to not be gender-equal; patriarchal norms often reinforce gender stereotypes. The study also investigates the nature of the violence experienced by children: in school, around school, or on the way to school. Do children share or report their experiences of violence and how are these behaviours influenced? These questions and more are addressed in detail.

To read more about Plan’s work on promoting equality and safety in schools (PEASS), please visit their website.