Gender-based and sexual violence in Latin America structural factors psychological impacts and challenges of institutional response

Lisandra León Brizuela; Leonel Céspedes Tamayo

Resumen:

This article conducted a thematic review on gender-based and sexual violence in the Ecuadorian and Latin American context, aiming to analyze its principal manifestations, impacts, and institutional responses. A qualitative approach was applied, based on the documentary analysis of scientific literature published between 2019 and 2024, reports from international organizations, and current national legislation. The results showed that gender-based violence takes multiple forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, patrimonial, and moral violence, affecting women of all ages in a transversal manner. A high prevalence of domestic and sexual violence was identified, with profound physical and psychological impacts such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Structural risk factors were also recognized, such as patriarchal culture, economic inequality, lack of access to adequate services, and institutional revictimization. Despite legal advancements, significant challenges persist in effectively implementing public policies, comprehensive victim care, and transforming discriminatory cultural patterns. It was concluded that eradicating gender-based violence requires coordinated, sustained, and intersectional action that integrates legal, social, educational, and public health measures aimed at guaranteeing women’s human rights.