Analysing the efficiency of public policies on gender-based violence: A literature review

Abstract

Gender-based violence is a global scourge advancing unchecked, penetrating all social and cultural strata. Physical, sexual and emotional abuse seriously affects women's freedom, with consequences not only psychological and physical but also economic, in the form of health, labour, legal and police costs. Therefore, society demands effective governmental measures based on respect for human rights and aimed at promoting equality to avoid intimidation and ill-treatment. This paper proposes to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the literature to investigate the state of the art of public policy and gender violence or domestic violence or violence against women to detect the patterns of behaviour that have marked the lines of study over the last two decades (2001–2022), by analysing a sample of 355 articles. The results reveal that scientific production has grown exponentially recently, with Brazil and the USA having the most significant involvement. Furthermore, three clearly differentiated lines of research are evident: the detection of risk factors and prevention measures; feminist movements aimed at empowering women, seeking their independence; and the qualification of care services supported by public policies. However, they all have the same objective, to achieve gender homogeneity and stop any type of violence against women and girls.