Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a significant issue in Canada, affecting individuals across various demographics. Below is an overview of key statistics highlighting the prevalence and impact of GBV in the country:
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV):
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Prevalence: In 2019, 44% of women and 36% of men reported experiencing some form of IPV since the age of 15. Notably, women disproportionately experience the most severe forms of IPV, such as being choked, assaulted with a weapon, or sexually assaulted.
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Police-Reported Incidents: In 2019, women accounted for 79% of the 107,810 police-reported IPV victims aged 15 and over. The rate of IPV was more than 3.5 times higher among women than men (536 versus 149 per 100,000 population).
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Homicides: Between 2014 and 2019, there were 497 intimate partner homicides in Canada, with women comprising 80% (400 victims) of these fatalities.
Sexual Violence:
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Lifetime Prevalence: Approximately 30% of women and 8% of men in Canada have reported being sexually assaulted at least once since the age of 15.
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Annual Incidence: In 2018, 12% of women aged 15 to 24 reported being sexually assaulted in the previous 12 months, a significantly higher proportion than among women of any other age group.
Impact on Specific Populations:
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Indigenous Women: Indigenous women are overrepresented as victims of intimate partner homicides, accounting for 22% of such victims between 2019 and 2023, despite comprising about 5% of the female population in Canada.
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Women with Disabilities: Women with disabilities report higher rates of IPV, with 55% experiencing such violence since age 15, compared to 37% of women without disabilities.
Trends Over Time:
- Increase in Reports: Police-reported family violence rose by 17% and intimate partner violence by 13% from 2018 to 2023. While women and girls remain the primary victims, the number of cases involving men and boys as victims has also increased.
Underreporting:
- Sexual Assault: It is estimated that only about 6% of sexual assaults are reported to police, indicating that official statistics likely underestimate the true prevalence of these crimes.
These statistics underscore the pervasive nature of gender-based violence in Canada and highlight the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such violence across all segments of society.
Organizations fighting against GBV in Canada
Several organizations across Canada actively combat gender-based violence (GBV) through advocacy, support services, education, and policy development. Below is a comparison of notable organizations:
1. Canadian Women's Foundation (CWF)
Focus Areas:
- Empowerment of women and girls through programs targeting violence prevention, economic independence, and leadership.
- National grants to support shelters and anti-violence initiatives.
Key Initiatives:
- Signal for Help: A hand gesture to discreetly indicate distress.
- Violence Prevention Grants: Funding for organizations tackling GBV.
Strengths:
- Strong focus on prevention and empowerment.
- National reach and visibility.
Challenges:
- Relies heavily on donations for funding.
2. Women's Shelters Canada (WSC)
Focus Areas:
- Supporting and connecting shelters across Canada for survivors of IPV.
- Advocacy for improved policies and funding for shelter services.
Key Initiatives:
- ShelterSafe.ca: A national database of shelters for survivors.
- Advocacy campaigns for sustainable shelter funding.
Strengths:
- Specialized in providing tangible support and shelter access.
- Networked approach ensures national impact.
Challenges:
- Focused primarily on shelter services, less on primary prevention.
3. White Ribbon Campaign
Focus Areas:
- Engaging men and boys in ending violence against women.
- Promoting healthy masculinity and gender equality.
Key Initiatives:
- Educational workshops in schools and workplaces.
- Campaigns like "Be the Change" for male allies.
Strengths:
- Unique focus on male involvement.
- Addresses the root causes of GBV through cultural change.
Challenges:
- Limited direct support for survivors.
4. Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC)
Focus Areas:
- Addressing GBV affecting Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
- Advocacy on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).
Key Initiatives:
- Resiliency Lodges: Healing spaces for Indigenous women.
- National advocacy for systemic change and justice.
Strengths:
- Deep cultural understanding and community focus.
- Direct involvement in policy advocacy for Indigenous rights.
Challenges:
- Limited resources compared to broader national organizations.
5. Ending Violence Association of Canada (EVA Canada)
Focus Areas:
- Supporting frontline anti-violence organizations.
- Research, policy, and training to address GBV systemically.
Key Initiatives:
- Collaborative initiatives with law enforcement and healthcare.
- Development of standardized GBV response protocols.
Strengths:
- Systemic and intersectional approach.
- Strong partnerships with institutions.
Challenges:
- Indirect support for survivors; focuses more on systemic change.
Summary Comparison:
| Organization | Primary Focus | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Women’s Foundation | Prevention and empowerment | National reach, innovative | Resource-dependent |
| Women’s Shelters Canada | Shelter and support access | Tangible aid, wide network | Narrow focus on shelters |
| White Ribbon Campaign | Engaging men and boys | Cultural change focus | Limited survivor support |
| Native Women’s Association | Indigenous women and MMIWG | Cultural expertise | Limited resources |
| Ending Violence Association | Systemic change and training | Policy impact | Indirect survivor focus |
Each organization brings unique strengths to the fight against GBV, addressing different aspects of the issue. A holistic approach that combines these efforts—supporting survivors, engaging communities, and driving systemic change—can make the most significant impact.
Obtaining precise and up-to-date figures on the number of employees and revenue for non-profit organizations can be challenging, as such details are not always publicly disclosed. However, based on available information, here's an overview of the organizations previously discussed:
1. Canadian Women's Foundation (CWF):
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Revenue: Since its inception in 1991, CWF has raised over $100 million to fund more than 1,950 programs across Canada.
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Employees: Specific employee numbers are not publicly available.
2. Women's Shelters Canada (WSC):
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Revenue: In December 2020, the Government of Canada announced an agreement with WSC to provide funding for gender-based violence supports.
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Employees: Specific employee numbers are not publicly available.
3. White Ribbon Campaign:
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Revenue: Specific revenue figures are not publicly available.
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Employees: Specific employee numbers are not publicly available.
4. Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC):
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Revenue: Specific revenue figures are not publicly available.
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Employees: Specific employee numbers are not publicly available.
5. Ending Violence Association of Canada (EVA Canada):
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Revenue: Specific revenue figures are not publicly available.
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Employees: Specific employee numbers are not publicly available.
For the most accurate and current information, consulting the annual reports or financial statements of these organizations is recommended. Additionally, the Canada Revenue Agency's Charities Listings can provide financial details for registered charities
Governmen
t and other grants available in Canada to fight GBV
In Canada, various government and non-governmental grants are available to support initiatives combating gender-based violence (GBV). Here are some notable programs:
Government Grants:
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Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) Funding Programs:
- Objective: Support projects that address GBV, promote gender equality, and empower women and gender-diverse individuals.
- Details: WAGE offers funding to organizations working to prevent GBV and support survivors. Eligibility criteria and application deadlines vary by program.
- More Information: Women and Gender Equality Canada - Funding
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National Emergency Survivor Support Fund (NESS Fund):
- Objective: Provide financial assistance to survivors of GBV to help them leave abusive situations and establish safe housing.
- Details: Administered by YWCA Canada, the NESS Fund offers one-time financial support to women, gender-diverse people, and their families. The fund can be used for expenses such as first and last month's rent, utility setup, and moving costs.
- More Information: YWCA Canada - NESS Fund
Non-Governmental Grants:
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Canadian Women's Foundation Community Needs Grants:
- Objective: Provide short-term support for grassroots organizations addressing gender justice, with a focus on smaller organizations meeting immediate needs.
- Details: Grants of up to $20,000 are available to support existing programs, pilot new projects, undertake policy or advocacy initiatives, and cover operational expenses. Approximately 25 grants are awarded annually.
- More Information: Canadian Women's Foundation - Community Needs Grants
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Equality Fund Grants:
- Objective: Support women's rights organizations and feminist movements globally, including those in Canada, to advance gender equality.
- Details: The Equality Fund provides grants to organizations working on various aspects of gender equality, including combating GBV. Funding amounts and eligibility criteria vary.
- More Information: Equality Fund
Additional Resources:
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Canadian Women's Foundation: Offers various funding opportunities and resources to organizations working to advance gender equality and address GBV.
- More Information: Canadian Women's Foundation - Grants
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Philanthropic Foundations: Some private foundations in Canada provide grants to organizations addressing GBV. For example, the Slaight Family Foundation has supported initiatives like the NESS Fund.
Application Considerations:
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Eligibility: Each grant program has specific eligibility criteria, including organizational status (e.g., registered charity), focus areas, and target populations.
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Application Deadlines: Deadlines vary by program; it's essential to check the specific timelines for each grant.
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Funding Amounts: Grant amounts differ across programs; review the funding guidelines to understand the available support.
Organizations seeking funding to combat GBV in Canada should review these programs' specific requirements and deadlines to determine the best fit for their initiatives.
In Canada, numerous projects have received grants to combat gender-based violence (GBV). Here are some notable initiatives:
National Emergency Survivor Support Fund (NESS Fund)
Administered by YWCA Canada, this fund provides financial assistance to survivors of GBV, helping them secure safe housing and essential needs. Funded by the Slaight Family Foundation and the Government of Canada.
list Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) GBV program projects
Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) administers the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Program, which funds various projects across the country to prevent and address GBV. While a comprehensive list of funded projects is not readily available, several notable initiatives have been publicly announced:
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Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic
- Funding Amount: $1,000,000
- Purpose: To enhance services providing counseling, legal advice, and representation to women experiencing violence, aiming to reach more isolated or at-risk women.
- Source:
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Canadian Council of Muslim Women
- Project Title: "Strengthening Capacity to Empower Muslim Women and Girls"
- Funding Amount: $761,720
- Purpose: To provide equity, equality, and empowerment for Canadian Muslim women, increasing resources and support to address challenges faced by Muslim women in Canada.
- Source:
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Disabled Women's Network (DAWN) Canada
- Funding Amount: $830,959
- Purpose: To enhance the organization's capacity in networking, research, education, and advocacy, aiming to eliminate poverty, discrimination, and violence experienced by women with disabilities.
- Source:
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Scarborough Women's Centre
- Project Title: "Strategically Advancing Gender Equality (SAGE)"
- Funding Amount: $209,240
- Purpose: To support low-income women and their children by providing services, resources, support, and education, enabling them to gain economic and emotional independence.
- Source:
These projects exemplify WAGE's commitment to supporting diverse initiatives that address various facets of GBV across Canada. For more detailed information on funded projects, consulting WAGE's official publications or contacting the department directly is recommended.
How can AI be Utlized to fight GBV
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a pivotal role in combating gender-based violence (GBV) through innovative tools, data-driven insights, and scalable solutions. Here are several ways AI is being leveraged or could be used to address GBV:
1. Survivor Support and Resources
- Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: AI-powered chatbots can provide survivors with 24/7 confidential support, guidance, and referrals to shelters or legal resources. Examples include apps like “Raya” or other specialized support platforms.
- Language Translation: AI tools like Google Translate can help break language barriers, enabling survivors from diverse linguistic backgrounds to access critical resources.
2. Prevention and Awareness
- Monitoring Harmful Online Behavior:
- AI algorithms can detect abusive language, threats, or patterns of harassment on social media, chat platforms, and other digital spaces.
- Tools like “Moderation AI” help platforms identify and remove harmful content.
- Educational Campaigns:
- AI-powered personalization can tailor awareness campaigns to target specific demographics, improving outreach and impact.
3. Early Detection and Risk Assessment
- Predictive Analytics: AI can analyze data from social services, healthcare providers, and law enforcement to identify individuals or communities at higher risk of GBV, enabling timely interventions.
- Wearable Technology: Devices equipped with AI can detect sudden movements or biometric changes associated with distress, sending alerts to emergency contacts.
4. Reporting and Evidence Collection
- Automated Reporting Tools:
- Apps using AI can streamline the process of reporting GBV incidents by guiding survivors through the required steps in a secure and anonymous manner.
- AI can assist in generating detailed reports for law enforcement or legal use.
- Image and Video Analysis: AI can analyze multimedia evidence to detect signs of abuse or identify perpetrators, aiding investigations.
5. Improved Accessibility
- AI for Accessibility: AI tools can make support systems more inclusive by offering voice-activated services, screen readers for visually impaired individuals, or speech-to-text transcription for those with hearing impairments.
- Culturally Sensitive Tools: AI can be trained on culturally specific data to provide relevant and sensitive support.
6. Advocacy and Policy Development
- Data Analysis for Policy: AI can process large datasets from surveys, reports, and public records to uncover trends, measure the effectiveness of interventions, and guide policy-making.
- Monitoring Global Trends: AI-driven systems can aggregate data from various sources to monitor global GBV trends and recommend best practices.
7. Counseling and Rehabilitation
- AI in Mental Health Support:
- AI tools like “Woebot” or similar platforms can offer initial emotional support and coping strategies for survivors.
- Sentiment analysis can gauge survivors' emotional states over time, enabling therapists to provide tailored support.
Challenges to Address
While AI holds promise, there are key challenges:
- Privacy Concerns: Ensuring that survivors' data is secure and confidential is critical.
- Bias in AI Models: AI must be trained on diverse datasets to avoid perpetuating biases.
- Accessibility: Ensuring that AI tools are accessible to marginalized and underserved communities is essential.
By combining technological innovation with ethical considerations, AI can significantly enhance efforts to prevent, address, and ultimately eradicate GBV.
CERAIT initiated and lead this initiative. Join us in this fight to eradicate GBV
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