Information provision messages

Gender-based violence is a serious violation of human rights and a life-threatening health and protection issue. Gender based violence may occur in different contexts and may be perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, other residents or, in some cases, by persons in positions of authority. All such acts are prohibited. When people flee their homes, they are often at greater risk of physical, sexual and psychological violence, such as rape, sexual abuse and forced prostitution. Although anyone (women, girls, men, boys and non-binary individuals) can fall victim to violence simply because of their sex or gender, women and girls are especially at risk. 

The victim is never responsible for or being blamed for the violence experienced. Applicants are encouraged to report unsafe behaviours or situations, while reception authorities have a duty to promptly act on any protection concerns identified. Not reporting violence does not affect access to reception conditions or support services. 

Receiving information on gender-based violence allows applicants to recognise different forms of abuse, educating them on their rights and providing information on available support services. 

Effective information provision and communication can empower applicants to protect themselves and seek help if needed, fostering a safer and more supportive environment in reception. 

Inform applicants about the following. 

• What gender-based violence entails. Explain using simple language and provide practical examples. Highlight that gender-based violence includes physical, sexual, psychological and economic forms of violence as well as other harmful practices such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation. 
• The prohibition of any form of gender-based violence in reception and in the host society. 
• The consequences of such acts for perpetrators, including criminal charges, legal sanctions as well as administrative sanctions (see also the topic ‘Reduction or withdrawal of material reception conditions’ in Section Other material reception conditions). Victims will not face any sanctions, whether they decide to report the acts or not. 
• The focal points to contact if they are victims of gender-based violence, including how and where to reach them (phone, email, hotline/online portal) and their availability (working hours/emergency cover).
• No actions are taken without their informed consent when gender-based violence is reported. Confidentiality and personal data protection always apply, except in situations where their life or that of others is at risk. 
• The available support such as hotlines, counselling, shelters, medical, psychological treatment and rehabilitation services including how to access them.
• The possibility to request an interpreter to facilitate communication with service providers.
• The existing reporting mechanism, the importance of using it and the existing guarantees (e.g. confidentiality, data protection). Emphasise that the reception facility is intended as a safe-space and that the timely reporting of any unsafe behaviours or situations is mandatory. 
• The relevant non-governmental and international organisations that may provide additional information and support to victims of gender-based violence.

Practical tips

• Provide regular awareness sessions for both adults and children. Depending on the context and scope, organise the sessions either jointly or separately per gender. Use accessible and age-appropriate language. Emphasise the consequences of sexual, gender-based, racist or religiously motivated violence, and promote respect, safety and equality within the community. 
• Reception staff handling gender-based violence cases include both male and female members where possible. This allows applicants to choose and contact the focal point they feel most comfortable with. 
• When communicating with applicants in mixed groups, adopt a respectful, empathetic and gender-sensitive approach. Use clear and reassuring language, maintain confidentiality. Provide information in a way that acknowledges different experiences and comfort levels related to gender.
• Design inclusive information provision messages by acknowledging that men and boys can also be victims of gender-based violence and by adapting the content accordingly.
• Deliver the information through multiple channels, including oral, audiovisual and visual formats (such as animations with real-life examples, pictograms, posters and videos). 
• Apply a trauma-informed approach to information provision on gender-based violence by recognising the impact of trauma on mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Provide a safe, confidential and gender-sensitive environment (e.g. gender-specific sessions, comfortable circular seating, adequate lighting, quiet space).
• Use professionally trained interpreters who are bound by confidentiality obligations, and match the gender of both the reception staff and the interpreter to the applicant’s preferences. This ensures they feel safe, respected and able to speak freely. This helps reduce stress, encourages disclosure when needed and prevents re-traumatisation.
• Ensure a do-no-harm approach through leaflets, posters or audio materials. Listed below are examples. 
  • Incorporate gender-based violence information into general informational materials for applicants, covering multiple topics. This helps avoiding harm if abusers find these materials on the victim(s).
  • Design discreet contact cards that can be detached from general leaflets without revealing their purpose. Distribute them safely during meetings with women or during women’s medical appointments.
• Ensure appropriate attitudes when working with applicants who are victims of gender-based violence. Provide targeted awareness sessions for interpreters and cultural mediators on gender sensitivity and trauma-informed communication.