Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is the most widespread form of abuse worldwide, affecting one third of all women in their lifetime. VAWG undermines the mental and physical health of women and girls, violates their human rights and can have a negative impact on long-term peace and stability. In line with its international and national commitments, preventing VAWG is a top priority for the UK Government and DFID.

This two-part guidance note is part of a series of DFID guidance notes on VAWG.

It focuses specifically on how to address VAWG in health programming, where DFID aims to make progress towards improving the health outcomes of women and girls as a result of the health sector’s response to VAWG.

This part provides specific guidance on designing programmes for key outcome areas.

Part A sets out the strategic rationale and broad approach to addressing VAWG in health programming.