This report focuses on one of the major barriers to education girls face: gender-based violence – sexual, physical and psychological – in and around schools. Girls are vulnerable to rape, exploitation, coercion and discrimination perpetrated by students and teachers.

‘A girl’s right to learn without fear’ looks at the issues and presents solutions which are drawn from existing policy examples, as well as global civil society campaigns, international instruments and the voices of girls themselves.

Plan calls on governments to prioritise actions tied to 8 key principles to ensure that all children can learn free from violence, and that girls benefit from their equal right to education. These principles are:

• Comprehensive and integrated action across sectors
• Effective legislation and regulation
• Safe and effective reporting and response
• Evidence-based policy
• Well supported, well trained personnel
• Partnership between authorities and civil society organisations
• Inclusiveness of whole communities including men and boys
• Participation with young girls and boys