Campus Gender-Based Violence Against LGBTQ+ Students in Ecuadorian Universities: Prevalence, Health, and Educational Consequences

This study presents the first national-level empirical data from South America on nonpartner gender-based violence (GBV) against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Questioning (LGBTQ+) university students, focusing on its academic and health consequences. Drawing from a confidential survey of 23,261 students across 16 Ecuadorian universities, we analyzed data from 791 students who identified as LGBTQ+. Results show that 45.6% of LGBTQ+ students have experienced at least one form of GBV—including harassment, psychological, sexual, or economic violence—committed by other students, faculty, or staff. Emotional (63.8%) and academic (59.9%) harm were the most frequently reported consequences. Notably, students assigned female at birth reported greater emotional harm (71.8%) than those assigned male at birth (52.9%). Although differences in prevalence were not statistically significant, patterns suggest gendered dynamics in the type of violence experienced. Using a theoretical model that combines institutional betrayal, minority stress theory, and symbolic violence, we argue that chronic exposure to GBV, when normalized or ignored by universities, produces cumulative harm. The findings underscore the urgent need for structural reforms in higher education to address nonintimate GBV and promote safe, inclusive learning environments for sexual and gender minorities.