“It can be so tempting to want to ‘fix’ the problem, like helping someone leave an abusive home. But without proper training, you could put that person in increased danger,” says Bresnahan. “Instead, focus on validating what they shared with you, pointing out their strengths and above all remind them they are not alone.”

As the conservation sector strives to take a more holistic approach to protecting the planet and building a brighter future for all people, we also need to contend with existing inequalities. Gender inequality and gender-based violence impacts our conservation efforts and our own staff and communities.

Investing in gender equity in conservation is challenging, slow work—especially as we push social norms that have restricted women’s access to money and decision-making. Yet if we choose to ignore it, our conservation work will primarily benefit those who are more privileged, not those who need it the most.

In the process of choosing media for this article, we have selected a broad range of images of women and men from around the world to demonstrate the pervasive nature of gender-based violence. None of the photos represent the portrayal, disclosure or survival of violence.