A Global Prospective of Gender Based Violence Courts

Abstract

Gender Based Violence (GBV) is a pervasive global issue that demands urgent judicial attention. Specialized Gender-Based Violence Courts (GBV courts) have been established worldwide to address these crimes effectively. This paper explores the global landscape of GBV courts, focusing on their evolution, legal frameworks, and impact in various jurisdictions. Countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have implemented specialized courts to provide swift and survivor-centric justice. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) serves as a foundational framework guiding national policies against GBV. Many nations have strengthened their legal systems by enacting laws that ensure victim protection, expedite case proceedings, and improve conviction rates. The pioneering GBV court was established in Chile in 1993, inspiring other countries to develop similar judicial mechanisms. Australia, for instance, has integrated electronic monitoring systems to enhance offender accountability, while the UK has emphasized survivor support through trauma-informed legal processes. In Bangladesh and India, GBV courts have played a significant role in addressing workplace discrimination and child labor exploitation.