Makes a sustained case for violence against women to be taken up by development organisations, as a development issue in its own right. Examines definitions of violence against women and attempts to explain why it is a problem in all societies around the world. It discusses responses to violence that are based on human rights approaches, and asks why - until recently - development organisations have failed to take up the challenge to end violence against women. Focuses on strategies that development organisations can adopt in order to counter violence against women and to support the survivors. Case studies drawn from over 30 countries worldwide, from times of peace and of armed conflict, illustrate the possibilties and pitfalls of different strategies and interventions. Suggests ways of transforming attitudes and beliefs in societies that condone violence against women; of supporting individual survivors; of challenging abusers; and of lobbying and campaigning to ensure that governments and NGOs fulfil their duty to protect women.