Culturally Anchoring an Intervention for Gender-Based Violence

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• International Development

Background:

• Haiti experienced a devastating earthquake in 2010, leading to widespread displacement and increased violence against women and girls.
• Gender-based violence (GBV) is a critical issue exacerbated by natural disasters and displacement.
• Addressing GBV requires understanding existing resources and community needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a rapid situational analysis of resources and services for internally displaced women and girls in Haiti.
• To identify gaps, strengths, and limitations in existing support systems for GBV survivors.
• To inform the development of a culturally specific intervention to address gender-based violence.

Main Methods:

• Focus groups were convened in Port au Prince over an eight-day period.
• Participants included displaced women and older girls, NGO directors, healthcare providers, and community youth leaders.
• A qualitative approach was used to gather insights on GBV influences and service needs.

Main Results:

• Multiple influences of GBV on displaced women and girls were illuminated.
• Gaps, strengths, and limitations of existing resources and services were identified.
• Factors supporting or hindering intervention implementation were revealed.

Conclusions:

• The findings provided a foundation for developing a culturally specific educational and safety plan.
• The plan was implemented in Haiti post-earthquake and remains relevant.
• Addressing GBV in post-disaster settings requires a comprehensive understanding of local context and resources.