Study on Women’s and Men’s Health and Life Experiences in Papua, Indonesia Report

The Study on Women’s and Men’s Health and Life Experiences in Papua, Indonesia, by UNDP and USAID, presents pioneering baseline data on gender-based violence (GBV) in four districts across Papua and West Papua. Drawing on surveys of nearly 2,000 women and men, the report documents alarmingly high rates of intimate partner violence (physical, sexual, emotional, and economic), controlling behaviours, non-partner violence, and childhood trauma.

It highlights pervasive acceptance of violence, entrenched gender norms, and the limited reach of formal support services. The study also details the health and wellbeing impacts — ranging from injuries and reproductive complications to emotional distress and effects on children — and reports on how women respond to and cope with violence, including obstacles to seeking help.

With findings grounded in a feminist, rights-based approach, the report offers clear recommendations to promote gender equality, challenge harmful norms, strengthen health and justice sector responses, address child abuse, and improve multi-sector coordination. Its data provide a vital foundation for policymakers and organisations to design more effective, culturally informed interventions to prevent violence and support survivors.