Closing the funding gap to end violence against women and girls

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread and devastating human rights violations in the world, affecting one in three women globally. Despite clear evidence that violence is preventable, action to end it continues to fall short—especially when it comes to funding. Today, less than 1 per cent of official development assistance (ODA) is directed toward efforts to end gender-based violence, and even less supports women’s rights organizations that are on the frontlines of this work.

This publication, produced under the ACT to End Violence against Women and Girls programme, provides a clear and urgent call to action for governments, donors, and development partners. It outlines the current state of funding for prevention and response efforts, the costs of inaction, and the economic and social benefits of investing in proven solutions. Drawing from global data, case studies, and economic analysis, the paper shows that well-funded, evidence-based interventions can reduce violence significantly—while generating savings across health, justice, and social systems.

The paper offers six priority actions, including the development of fully costed national action plans, investment in data and prevention research, and increased long-term support to feminist movements. It makes the case that closing the funding gap is not only a moral imperative, but also a smart, cost-effective investment in safer, more equitable societies.