Assessing Initiatives Taken to Safeguard and Support Victims of Sexual Abuse in Dowa District: A Case Study of the Spotlight Initiative Under the Girls Empowerment Network (GENET)
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
In Malawi, sexual abuse disproportionately affects girls and young women, emphasizing the need for effective interventions to safeguard their well-being. The Spotlight Initiative, a significant effort to combat violence against women and girls, has been implemented in Malawi, addressing various forms of gender-based violence, including sexual abuse. One funded project, Girls Action to End Violence against Women and Girls (GATEVAWG), aims to empower girls through mentorship in combating gender-based violence. This study assesses the effectiveness of initiatives and support mechanisms for sexual abuse victims in Malawi’s Dowa District. The population size includes data from at least 10 victims or project beneficiaries, 5 community authorities (traditional authorities), and at least 5 organization representatives leading the Spotlight Initiative project. Findings reveal the pervasive nature of sexual abuse in the study area, where men exploit vulnerable women and girls. While community authorities play a crucial role in intervention and support, neglecting some cases leads to adverse consequences for victims and their families. Support provided includes health care, psychosocial, emotional, and social assistance, facilitating recovery and societal reintegration. The study highlights the positive impact of the Spotlight Initiative, empowering girls with knowledge of their rights and sexual reproductive health. However, challenges persist, necessitating continuous efforts to combat harmful social and gender norms. Recommendations include encouraging girls to report abuse, raising awareness among families and community leaders, and strengthening follow-up mechanisms for addressed cases. The study also recommends future investigations into how survivors, supported by community-based initiatives, experience long-term physical, psychological, and emotional well-being.
期刊介绍:
This journal offers an outlet for articles that support social work as a human rights profession. It brings together knowledge about addressing human rights in practice, research, policy, and advocacy as well as teaching about human rights from around the globe. Articles explore the history of social work as a human rights profession; familiarize participants on how to advance human rights using the human rights documents from the United Nations; present the types of monitoring and assessment that takes place internationally and within the U.S.; demonstrate rights-based practice approaches and techniques; and facilitate discussion of the implications of human rights tools and the framework for social work practice.