A scoping review of gender-based violence interventions conducted in Afghanistan

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive human rights and public health challenges worldwide, with disproportionate impacts on women and girls in conflict-affected and fragile states. Afghanistan represents one of the most restrictive environments for women's rights, where structural, cultural, and political barriers severely limit the implementation and evaluation of GBV-prevention programs. This scoping review aims to identify and critically appraise GBV prevention and response interventions implemented in Afghanistan and assess their contribution to advancing gender and health equity.

Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the PICOS framework, nine databases were systematically searched for studies published between 2010 and November 2025. Studies were included if they evaluated or described an intervention addressing GBV, intimate partner violence, or violence against Afghan women and girls. Data were charted by study design, target population, intervention type, theoretical foundation, and outcomes.

Seven studies met inclusion criteria, highlighting the limited evidence base in Afghanistan. Interventions included community development programs, school-based peace education, family strengthening initiatives, psychosocial counselling, and women's economic empowerment. Reported outcomes showed improvements in gender-equitable attitudes, family relationships, and psychosocial wellbeing; however, cultural constraints and insecurity limited long-term impact.

Despite sparse evidence, existing interventions suggest that context-sensitive, community-driven, and multi-sectoral approaches can promote gender equity and resilience. Expanding locally led GBV-prevention programs integrated into health and social systems can assist in reducing violence and achieving equitable health outcomes for Afghan women and families.