Final answer:
Unequal power relations, particularly in patriarchal societies, can contribute to gender-based violence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Unequal power relations can lead to gender-based violence in several ways. One way is through the perpetuation of patriarchal norms and values, where power is concentrated in the hands of men and characteristics associated with femininity are devalued. This power imbalance creates a society where women are marginalized and oppressed, making them more vulnerable to violence. For example, in societies where men hold more political, social, and economic power, women often experience higher rates of intimate partner violence.