By Seeing With Our Own Eyes, It Can Remain In Our Mind: Qualitative Evaluation Findings Suggest The Ability of Participatory Video to Reduce Gender-Based Violence in Conflict Affected Settings 

This publication assesses the impact of participatory video as an educational tool to raise awareness of and reduce the prevalence of Gender Based Violence in conflict affected settings. The approach described in this study shares similarities to Illuminaid’s video intervention and strategies, particularly in the scope of empowering women and girls. 

ILLUMINAID CLAIMS NO AUTHORSHIP OF THIS PUBLICATION AND TAKES NO OWNERSHIP OVER THE SUBJECT OF THIS STUDY’S RESEARCH. PLEASE SEE CITATION BELOW.

Abstract

Gender-based violence is pervasive and poses unique challenges in conflict-affected settings, with women and girls particularly vulnerable to its sequelae. Furthermore, widespread stigmatization of gender-based violence promotes silence among survivors and families, inhibiting access to services. Little evidence exists regarding effective gender-based violence prevention interventions in these settings. Through Our Eyes, a multi-year participatory video project, addressed gender-based violence by stimulating community dialogue and action in post-conflict settings in South Sudan, Uganda, Thailand, Liberia and Rwanda. The present qualitative analysis of project evaluation data included transcripts from 18 focus group discussions (n = 125) and key informant interviews (n = 76). Study participants included project team members, representatives from partner agencies, service providers and community members who either participated in video production or attended video screenings. Study findings revealed that the video project contributed to a growing awareness of women's rights and gender equality. The community dialogue helped to begin dismantling the culture of silence and gender-based violence, encouraging survivors to access health and law enforcement services. Furthermore, both men and women reported attitude and behavioral changes related to topics such as wife beating, gender-based violence reporting and girls' education. Health education professionals should employ participatory video to address gender-based violence within conflict-affected settings.

Citation

Gurman, T. A., Trappler, R. M., Acosta, A., McCray, P. A., Cooper, C. M., & Goodsmith, L. (2014). 'By seeing with our own eyes, it can remain in our mind': qualitative evaluation findings suggest the ability of participatory video to reduce gender-based violence in conflict-affected settings. Health education research, 29(4), 690–701. https://doi.org/10.1093/her/cyu018

Images from a 2021 illuminaid project in partnership with PLAN Paraguay for the promotion of health and safety of young women and girls in Asunción, Paraguay.