This report summarizes the USAID | Health Policy Initiative, Task Order 1 project titled The Role of

Religious Communities in Addressing Gender-based Violence and HIV, which was designed and

implemented by Futures Group International and Religions for Peace. Recognizing the importance of

collaborating to prevent and reduce gender-based violence (GBV) and HIV among women and girls, the

Initiative partners formulated the project to improve the capacity of religious leaders and faith-based

organizations (FBOs) to respond to GBV and its links to HIV. FBOs, religious communities and, in

particular, religious leaders, are often key catalysts for positive social change. Religious leaders are key

stakeholders in responding to health and social issues and can play an influential role in validating and

promoting best practices for preventing and reducing GBV and related vulnerability to HIV in their

communities.