Gender-Based Violence and Traditional Practices in Senegal: Progress and Ongoing Challenges

Nearly one in three women in Senegal aged 15 and older reported experiencing at least one form of gender-based violence within the last year, according to the Enquête nationale de référence sur les violences faites aux femmes (ENR-VFF). The study, conducted by the Agence nationale de la statistique et de la démographie (ANSD) with support from UN Women, highlights that psychological abuse remains the most frequently reported category of violence across the country.

Did You Know? Despite being prohibited by law, nearly one in four women aged 15 to 49 in Senegal has undergone some form of excision, also known as female genital mutilation, according to data from UNICEF.

Prevalence and types of violence

Gender-based violence in Senegal manifests in various forms, affecting women regardless of age or social standing. Physical violence involves direct aggression and physical harm, while psychological abuse includes intimidation, humiliation, and threats. Economic violence, characterized by the denial of financial autonomy or exclusion from household decision-making, also impacts many women. According to the ENR-VFF, these experiences are often underreported due to fears of social stigma, economic dependence, and family pressure.

The impact of traditional practices

Traditional practices, including early and forced marriage, continue to influence the well-being of women and girls in specific social contexts. These unions often lead to school dropout rates and increased economic reliance, limiting long-term opportunities for young women. While excision is legally banned, it persists in regions such as Kédougou, Sédhiou, Matam, Tambacounda, Kolda, and Ziguinchor, where it is frequently framed as a cultural or social rite. Health professionals warn that these practices cause long-term physical complications, including chronic pain, infections, and reproductive health issues.

Expert Insight: The persistence of these practices suggests that legal prohibitions alone may be insufficient for social change. Progress appears to depend on a combination of legislative measures and deep-rooted community dialogue to shift cultural norms, according to the strategies currently supported by organizations like UNICEF and the United Nations Population Fund.

Future outlook for gender equality

The state of women’s rights in Senegal remains a critical public health and social development issue. Future improvements may rely on the continued expansion of education, legal support mechanisms, and psychosocial services. If current initiatives involving community leaders and public authorities maintain momentum, it is possible that the visibility of these issues will increase, potentially leading to a more robust framework for victim protection and the eventual abandonment of harmful traditional practices.

Gender-Based Violence: Ford Foundation, UN Women Hold A Conference With Traditional Rulers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common form of violence reported by women in Senegal?
According to the ENR-VFF, psychological violence is among the most frequently reported forms of abuse.

Where is the practice of excision most prevalent in Senegal?
UNICEF reports the highest rates of excision in the regions of Kédougou, Sédhiou, Matam, Tambacounda, Kolda, and Ziguinchor.

What factors contribute to the underreporting of violence?
Victims often remain silent due to fear of social judgment, family pressure, and economic dependence on their abusers.

What steps do you believe are most effective in fostering long-term social change regarding traditional practices?