Gender inequality is characterised by unequal power relations between women and men. One of the key
manifestations of these unequal power relations is violence. Studies conducted in Botswana indicate that
actual violence and threats of violence against women severely hamper the achievement of gender equality.
This paper presents the results of national studies on the extent and nature of violence against women. The
studies reveal that most cases of violence are domestic - committed by men against their wives or cohabiting
parmers. The paper examines the dynamics of domestic violence. the factors that perpetuate it and the
difficulties o.fstopping it.