From Risk to Resilience: The Business Case for Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Agricultural Value Chain
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) undermines the well-being, agency, and economic participation of women and marginalised groups, which are key drivers of sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation. According to the World Bank, GBV costs the global economy an estimated $1.5 trillion annually – an alarming 2% of global GDP. While prominent worldwide, it hits hardest in rural areas and agricultural value chains, where deep-rooted structural inequalities, poverty, and food insecurity leave women and girls especially vulnerable.
Reducing GBV improves workforce stability, productivity, and community cohesion, making it a strategic investment for governments, donors, and private sector actors. Programs like the Women’s Safety Accelerator Fund (WSAF) show that addressing GBV delivers strong returns:
- Up to 71% reduction in productivity losses in participating companies;
- 3% rise in productivity within two years;
- Improved workforce morale and stronger brand reputation.
Safe, inclusive workplaces are not just good ethics, they’re good business, and that's what this report is about: From Risk to Resilience: The Business Case for Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Agricultural Value Chain
This report, From Risk to Resilience, presents a compelling case for why businesses can and must lead the way in addressing GBV. Grounded in data, case studies, and field insights, it shows that ending GBV is not just a social imperative; it is a strategic necessity.
The publication presents a strong business case for implementing anti-GBV initiatives and workplace policies to positively influence both business development and social impact, with specific considerations for agricultural value chains. By drawing on global data and real-world examples, the report illustrates how GBV undermines operational efficiency, drives financial losses, and reduces workforce productivity.
Together, we can turn risk into resilience. And in doing so, we can help build a more just, prosperous, and sustainable future.