Debunking Myths: Counter-Narratives in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence in Myanmar

This study goes beyond documenting gender-based violence (GBV) in Myanmar. It shows how people are actively pushing back. Survivors, allies, and everyday users are using social media to reject victim-blaming, challenge harmful norms, and demand justice. Through 11 case studies and thousands of Facebook comments, the authors analyze how counter-narratives are reshaping public attitudes.

The research identifies seven key themes. These include empathy and outrage, solidarity with whistleblowers, and calls to reject GBV as unacceptable. People are not just expressing support—they’re speaking out, sharing personal testimonies, and calling for systemic change. Some comments go further, openly demanding government action, legal accountability, and cultural reform.

The study recommends building victim-centered services, strengthening community-led reporting, and launching bold public education campaigns. Digital platforms are becoming spaces where silence is broken and norms are contested. But the authors stress: without real legal and institutional reforms, these conversations alone won’t be enough to end the violence.

Watch a video featuring more studies of gender dynamics in Myanmar:

This study is part of the Myanmar Digital Research series published by Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) with support from International Development Research Centre and The SecDev Foundation.