POLICY FRAMEWORKS AND THEIR EFFECTIVENESS IN ADDRESSING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN RURAL AREAS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Ineffective implementation of gender-based policy to address gender-based violence has been responsible for gender inequalities prevalent in rural areas in Nigeria. This is occasioned by the lack of policy mainstreaming and patriarchy culture of Nigerian societies with inherent cultural and societal barriers in the form of discrimination against women. This can be seen in key sectors such as the economy, politics, families and communities. The study addressed the following issues:  Forms of gender-based violence in rural areas, gaps in implementation of gender-based policy, how policy frameworks can effectively address gender-based violence in rural areas, measures on how to promote women’s empowerment and their equal participation in social, economic and political activities and identification of stakeholders and other civil society for partnership towards gender mainstreaming. This study adopts a critical analysis to explore information concerning the aims of the study. The investigation reveals that there are various forms of policy frameworks but the problem lies in the implementation. Further investigation shows that policy formworks are the necessary instrument that can effectively address gender-based violence in rural areas through stakeholders’ collaboration. It has been concluded that stakeholders have roles to play towards setting procedures and goals that will guide policy implementation. Through this, gender-based violence will be effectively addressed.

Keyword: Policy, Frameworks, effectiveness, gender-based violence, rural, communities