STRUCTURAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: DECONSTRUCTING GENDER STEREOTYPES

Abstract

Structural violence represents a pervasive yet often invisible form of harm embedded within socio-political, cultural, and economic institutions. Women across the world, particularly in patriarchal societies like India, disproportionately bear the brunt of such systemic inequalities. This paper examines the concept of structural violence through Johan Galtung’s theoretical framework and explores how deeply entrenched patriarchal systems perpetuate discrimination, subordination, and gender-based violence against women. Drawing upon secondary data, including global surveys, government statistics, and contemporary research, the study highlights the multilayered nature of structural violence—manifested through gender stereotypes, unequal power relations, workplace harassment, domestic violence, and socio-legal exclusion. The paper further discusses India’s specific context, analysing demographic imbalances, legal reforms, and institutional shortcomings. It concludes with policy recommendations aimed at fostering gender-just social structures through education, legal implementation, attitudinal reform, and holistic empowerment.