Rape, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), and the Myth of Clothing as a Cause

Introduction

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) is a global crisis affecting women and girls regardless of their clothing, behavior, or location. Despite this, many still believe that what a woman wears contributes to her risk of being assaulted. This harmful myth shifts the blame from perpetrators to victims, reinforcing a culture that excuses violence rather than addressing its root causes.

This article explores rape, SGBV, victim-blaming, and why clothing is never the cause of sexual violence.

What is SGBV?

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) refers to any harmful act directed at individuals based on their gender or sex, including:

Rape and Sexual Assault – Forced or non-consensual sexual activity.
Domestic Violence – Physical, emotional, or financial abuse within relationships.
Harassment & Catcalling – Unwanted sexual comments, gestures, or advances.
Forced Marriage & Child Marriage – Marrying a person against their will.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) – The cutting or removal of female genitalia.

SGBV is not about desire, attraction, or clothing—it is about power, control, and entitlement.

Rape: The Reality vs. Myths

Myth: "She was asking for it because of what she wore."

✔ Truth: Women are raped in all types of clothing, including modest attire, school uniforms, and religious garments.
✔ Fact: Survivors range from children to elderly women, proving that rape has nothing to do with fashion.

Myth: "Men can't control themselves around revealing clothes."

✔ Truth: Men are capable of self-control—blaming clothing suggests men have no responsibility for their actions.
✔ Fact: If clothing caused rape, countries where women dress conservatively would have no cases of rape—yet they still do.

Myth: "Most rapes happen in dark alleys by strangers."

✔ Truth: 85% of rapes are committed by someone the survivor knows—partners, family members, friends, or coworkers.
✔ Fact: Assaults occur in homes, schools, offices, and even religious institutions, not just public spaces.

The Problem with Victim-Blaming

Victim-blaming occurs when people question or criticise survivors instead of holding perpetrators accountable.

Common Blaming Statements:
“Why was she out so late?”
“What was she wearing?”
“Did she fight back?”

Why It’s Harmful:

Excuses the Rapist – Focuses on the victim instead of the crime.
Silences Survivors – Fear of blame stops victims from reporting abuse.
Prevents Justice – Society reinforces the idea that rape is a "misunderstanding" rather than a violent crime.

Rape is never the victim’s fault. The only person responsible is the rapist.

Legal & Social Responses to SGBV

1. Strengthening Laws and Policies

Tougher penalties for rapists and repeat offenders.
Better enforcement of gender-based violence laws.
Mandatory sexual consent education in schools.

2. Ending the Culture of Silence

Encouraging survivors to report crimes without fear of blame or retaliation.
Supporting safe spaces and helplines for victims.

3. Holding Perpetrators Accountable

Shifting the focus to rapists rather than questioning victims.
Encouraging male allies to speak up against sexual violence.

What Can Men Do to Help?

Challenge Rape Culture – Speak against jokes or attitudes that normalize rape.
Educate Other Men – Teach boys and young men about consent and respect.
Respect Boundaries – No means no. Silence is not consent.
Support Survivors – Believe them. Stand up for them. Don't ask what they were wearing.

Rape, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), and the Myth of Clothing as a Cause