Gender-based violence—including violence against people based on their gender expression, gender identity or perceived gender—is a significant cause of harm and a preventable barrier to gender equality.

“Violence against women, girls and individuals who identify as part of LGBTQ2 communities is a serious public health issue and one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today. That is why the Government of Canada continues to support projects across the country to raise awareness and address the root causes of gender-based violence and teen dating violence. The projects announced today will help foster positive relationships, change attitudes and promote gender equality to stop dating violence.”

Pam Damoff
Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of Health

“When governments, community organizations and young people work together to achieve shared goals, we create healthier communities and everyone benefits. Our government is pleased to fund these important projects as part of our federal strategy to prevent and address gender-based violence. It is through such collaboration that we will have a lasting impact on eliminating violence, empowering youth, and promoting healthy relationships.”

The Honourable Maryam Monsef
Minister of International Development and Minister for Women and Gender Equality

“Exposure to violence and trauma has significant and long-lasting health impacts, particularly on the developing brains of children and youth. The best way to prevent gender‑based violence and all of its associated risks to physical health and mental well-being is to promote the development of positive, supportive and healthy relationships early in life. Community-based programs tailored to the needs and experiences of youth are essential to building the foundations of equality and respect that will help to end gender-based violence in our society.”

Dr. Theresa Tam
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

• Funding for these projects is provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada and is part of Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence.

• The Public Health Agency of Canada is investing more than $40 million over five years under its Preventing Gender-Based Violence – The Health Perspective program. The program supports Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence.

• Globally, it is estimated that one in three women experiences intimate partner violence in her lifetime.

• In more than 70 countries, laws that criminalize LGBTQ2 people perpetuate gender‑based violence against members of these communities.

• In Canada, nearly 50% of people aged 15 and older who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual report having experienced childhood physical or sexual abuse, compared to 30% of heterosexual people.

• In June 2019, Canada will host the Women Deliver Conference, the world’s largest conference on gender equality and the health, rights and wellbeing of girls and women.

Related products

• Backgrounder

Associated links

• Government of Canada Announces Funding to Prevent Teen Dating Violence in Rural and Indigenous Communities
• Government of Canada Announces Funding for Innovative Project to Help Prevent Teen Dating Violence
• Government of Canada Supports Initiatives to End Gender-based Violence

Thierry Bélair
Office of Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health
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