Sexual Violence Research Initiative (2025). Final Report. Developing research priorities on gender-based violence in higher education institutions in low- and middle-income countries. Pretoria: SVRI.

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) in higher education institutions (HEIs) is a widespread yet understudied issue in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in Africa and the Middle East. While GBV in HEIs has received growing attention globally, most evidence originates from high-income countries. This study, led by the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), addresses critical evidence and policy gaps in LMIC contexts through a comprehensive, multi-method research project. The study includes a scoping review of literature, a nested policy study, and a research priority-setting exercise.