Gender-based violence is ubiquitous. More than 1 in 3 women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence, and millions of men, boys, and gender-diverse individuals are affected by physical, sexual, and emotional abuse daily. This violence is rooted in structural inequities and power imbalances intensified by differences in class, age, race, ability, and other factors.
The above numbers are, in the language of finance, material. We know that the global cost of violence against women is $1.5 trillion USD. We have increasing evidence that violence has a significant economic impact on industries and companies. These economic impacts translate into multiple types of investment risks. At the same time, the connection between violence and economics means there are also opportunities to use finance and investments to have an impact on violence.
This module frames the connections between GBV and investment decision-making. It lays out how incorporating GBV considerations into analysis of investment risk, opportunity, and impact can lead to better outcomes for all investors.
This module breaks down investor audiences into 3 types: investors in private companies, investors in public markets, and DFIs. It lays out specifics of how GBV analysis is relevant to each’s analysis of risk, opportunity, and impact.
The third module lays out frameworks, tools, and other materials relevant to each of the 3 investor types that can enable them to incorporate a GBV lens across various process and practices.