Title:
Sexual Violence Against Internally Displaced Women in North Kivu Critical Examination of Effective Health-System Responses and Community Interventions
Authors:
Manzila, Pistis
Year:
2015
PAGE:
x, 52
Language:
En
Keywords:
Sexual Violence, Prevention, Internally Displaced Persons, Health-system Responses, Community Interventions
Abstract:
Sexual violence against IDP women in DRC is a major public health problem. As of 2013, 80% of women living in North Kivu had been raped. Although the factors contributing to the violence and consequences have been researched and documented, information on evidence-based interventions for preventing sexual violence in this conflict-affected area is lacking. This study aims to assess current policies and programme responses for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of sexual violence. It also identifies effective interventions for sexual violence prevention in addition to care and support. A conceptual framework on the role of the health system to address violence against women was adapted and used to guide analysis of the findings. It was found that current policies and responses are adequate and meet international standards; however, there are gaps in implementation. Some of the reasons for these gaps are lack of efficient coordination mechanisms and inadequate information system. Interventions such as group training for women, girls and men, cognitive processing therapy and policy review are effective in the North Kivu context. It is recommended that the government make sexual violence prevention programmes a public health priority. Furthermore, information systems should be strengthened and monitoring and evaluation systems installed. Mental health units should be established in all government-owned secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities, along with appropriate resources including healthcare professionals and equipment.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Health Unit
Country:
United States of America
Region:
Northern America
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2015 Manzila
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
9seppzDzvQ_20161025163405497.pdf