Gender-based violence (GBV), sexual violence (SV) including intimate partner violence (IPV) have devastating effects on the lives of women and girls globally as well as in Vanuatu. As with other Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs), GBV is a major concern to communities
and governments, with multi-sectoral action required to prevent, treat and deal with GBV. Many women experience violence throughout their lives – as girls, while dating, in married life, including during pregnancy. The effects are inter-generational. It is recognized that men and
boys suffer the effects of GBV and SV too.
This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) presents clear procedures, roles, and responsibilities for healthcare providers in primary, secondary and tertiary level healthcare facilities in Vanuatu. The SOP for sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) has been developed to eliminate the practices that deprive GBV victims (children and adults) of their right to receive comprehensive care and which may seriously limit their access to psychosocial and legal assistance.
