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Reinholdz H, Agardh A, Verputten M, Byenda J, Frielingsdorf H. Care-seeking patterns and timely access to care among survivors of sexual violence in North Kivu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a retrospective file-based study. Glob Health Action 2024; 17:2336708. [PMID: 38660982 PMCID: PMC11047213 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2024.2336708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual violence is widespread in war-torn North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Timely access to care is crucial for the healing and wellbeing of survivors of sexual violence, but is problematic due to a variety of barriers. Through a better understanding of care-seeking behaviours and factors influencing timely access to care, programmes can be adapted to overcome some of the barriers faced by survivors of sexual violence. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe demographics, care-seeking patterns and factors influencing timely care-seeking by survivors of sexual violence. METHODS Retrospective file-based data analysis of sexual violence survivors accessing care within two Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) programmes supporting the Ministry of Health, in North Kivu, DRC, 2014-2018. RESULTS Most survivors (66%) sought care at specialised sexual violence clinics and a majority of the survivors were self-referred (51%). Most survivors seeking care (70%) did so within 3 days. Male survivors accessing care were significantly more likely to seek care within 3 days compared to females. All age groups under 50 years old were more likely to seek care within 3 days compared to those aged 50 years and older. Being referred by the community, a family member, mobile clinic or authorities was significantly associated with less probability of seeking care within 3 days compared to being self-referred. CONCLUSION Access to timely health care for survivors of sexual violence in North Kivu, DRC, is challenging and varies between different groups of survivors. Providers responding to survivors of sexual violence need to adapt models of care and awareness raising strategies to ensure that programmes are developed to enable timely access to care for all survivors. More research is needed to further understand the barriers and enablers to access timely care for different groups of survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Reinholdz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anette Agardh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Meggy Verputten
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joseph Byenda
- North Kivu Country Programme, Médecins Sans Frontières, Goma, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Helena Frielingsdorf
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Society and Health, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Mohamed A, Homeida A. Hunger in the shadow of conflict: analyzing malnutrition and humanitarian challenges in Sudan. Confl Health 2024; 18:50. [PMID: 39103882 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-024-00604-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflict has become a global reality, particularly impacting millions of children, with the majority of conflicts occurring in developing nations, where 90% of the world's children reside. The Horn of Africa, especially Sudan, has faced severe conflicts, with the year 2023 witnessing one of the toughest conflicts in the region, resulting in a high number of internally displaced persons and refugees. Children, especially in areas like Darfur, Khartoum, Gezira, and Kordofan, bear the brunt of ongoing large-scale conflicts, facing widespread human rights violations and resource damage. Before the conflict that began in April 2023, Khartoum was home to numerous children's hospitals, but now only Elbuluk Hospital remains operational, facing a surge in admissions due to displacement and subsequent returns of civilians seeking medical care. Although malnutrition cases have increased, the case fatality rate associated with severe acute malnutrition has doubled from approximately 6% to 12% by March 2024, possibly due to uneven food distribution amid sporadic peace efforts. RECOMMENDATIONS Investing in grassroots organizations is crucial for facilitating effective humanitarian aid delivery, as they are uniquely positioned to identify and address local needs promptly and efficiently. Strengthening these organizations enhances their capacity to coordinate aid distribution and provide essential services tailored to regional conditions. Persistent violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in conflict zones impede humanitarian efforts. Robust collaboration between international and local stakeholders is necessary to uphold and enforce IHL, with a focus on protecting civilian lives and ensuring safe, unhindered access for humanitarian aid while respecting the dignity of all affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Mohamed
- Sudanese American Physicians Association, Khartoum, Sudan.
- Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Anmar Homeida
- Sudanese American Physicians Association, Khartoum, Sudan
- New York University, School of Global Public Health, New York, USA
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Diab JL, Al-Azzeh D. Inclusive inquiry: a compassionate journey in trauma-informed qualitative research with GBV survivors from displaced communities. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1399115. [PMID: 39118846 PMCID: PMC11307779 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1399115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The integration of trauma-informed and ethical frameworks in qualitative research concerning survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) within displaced communities is critical. These individuals often bear the weight of traumatic experiences compounded by displacement and associated hardships. Adopting a trauma-informed approach establishes a safe environment, prioritizing survivors' well-being and respecting their agency and narratives, thereby fostering trust and reducing re-traumatization risks. Ethical considerations ensure the dignity, rights, and cultural sensitivities of participants are upheld, contributing to rigorous and humane research. This integration amplifies survivors' voices and experiences, enhancing understanding and empathy. Trauma-informed approaches acknowledge the likelihood of trauma in individuals' lives and prioritize safety without aiming to treat symptoms. Proficient interviewing skills aim to improve comfort, safety, and recall without avoiding challenging questions. Integration of trauma-informed principles across all interview phases is crucial, particularly for individuals experiencing various traumas simultaneously, such as displacement, violence, and ongoing conflict. Drawing from the authors' experiences and existing literature, this paper advocates for a compassionate and empowering shift in qualitative research methodologies to better engage with survivors of trauma and GBV within displaced communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Lilian Diab
- School of Arts and Sciences, Institute for Migration Studies, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dana Al-Azzeh
- School of Arts and Sciences, Institute for Migration Studies, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Svallfors S. Reproductive justice in the Colombian armed conflict. DISASTERS 2024; 48:e12618. [PMID: 38102735 DOI: 10.1111/disa.12618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the impacts of armed conflict on women's sexual and reproductive health in Colombia, building on a reproductive justice perspective to analyse original interviews with stakeholders in healthcare, women's rights, and peacebuilding. The analysis reveals that war affects women's sexual and reproductive health in three ways, through violent politicisation, collateral damage, and intersectional dimensions. First, multiple armed actors have used women's health as an instrument in politically motivated strategies to increase their power, assigning political meaning to sexuality and reproduction within the context of war. Second, women's health has also suffered from secondary damage of conflict resulting from a decay in healthcare service provision and an unmet need for healthcare services among those affected by sexual and reproductive violence. Third, marginalised women have been particularly affected by a discriminatory nexus of poverty, ethnicity, and geographic inequality. The paper concludes with a reflection on the opportunities for reproductive justice in Colombia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Svallfors
- Postdoctoral Scholar, Department of Sociology, Stanford University, United States
- Former PhD student, Department of Sociology, Stockholm University, Sweden
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Wirtz AL, Stevenson M, Guillén JR, Ortiz J, Barriga Talero MÁ, Page KR, López JJ, Ramirez Correa JF, Martínez Porras D, Luque Núñez R, Fernández-Niño JA, Spiegel PB. Persistent Food Insecurity and Material Hardships: A Latent Class Analysis of Experiences among Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants in Urban Colombia. Nutrients 2024; 16:1060. [PMID: 38613093 PMCID: PMC11013044 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The causes and conditions of displacement often increase the vulnerability of migrant and refugee populations to food insecurity, alongside other material hardships. We aimed to examine the multidimensional aspects and patterns of food insecurity and other material hardships in a cross-sectional sample of 6221 Venezuelan refugees and migrants in urban Colombia using a latent class analysis. Using multinomial and logistic regression models, we investigated the demographic and migratory experiences associated with identified classes and how class membership is associated with multiple health outcomes among Venezuelan refugees and migrants, respectively. Approximately two thirds of the sample was comprised cisgender women, and the participants had a median age of 32 years (IQR: 26-41). Four heterogeneous classes of food insecurity and material hardships emerged: Class 1-low food insecurity and material hardship; Class 2-high food insecurity and material hardship; Class 3-high income hardship with insufficient food intake; and Class 4-income hardship with food affordability challenges. Class 2 reflected the most severe food insecurity and material hardships and had the highest class membership; Venezuelans with an irregular migration status were almost 1.5 times more likely to belong to this class. Food insecurity and material hardship class membership was independently associated with self-rated health, mental health symptoms, and recent violence victimization and marginally associated with infectious disease outcomes (laboratory-confirmed HIV and/or syphilis infection). Social safety nets, social protection, and other interventions that reduce and prevent material hardships and food insecurity among refugees and migrants, alongside the host community, may improve public health, support development, and reduce healthcare costs. In the long term, regularization and social policies for migrants aimed at enhancing refugees' and migrants' social and economic inclusion may contribute to improving food security in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.); (K.R.P.)
- Department of International Health, Center for Humanitarian Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Megan Stevenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.); (K.R.P.)
| | - José Rafael Guillén
- Red Somos, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; (J.R.G.); (J.O.); (M.Á.B.T.); (J.J.L.); (J.F.R.C.); (D.M.P.)
| | - Jennifer Ortiz
- Red Somos, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; (J.R.G.); (J.O.); (M.Á.B.T.); (J.J.L.); (J.F.R.C.); (D.M.P.)
| | | | - Kathleen R. Page
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.); (K.R.P.)
- Department of International Health, Center for Humanitarian Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
- Department of Infectious Disease, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jhon Jairo López
- Red Somos, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; (J.R.G.); (J.O.); (M.Á.B.T.); (J.J.L.); (J.F.R.C.); (D.M.P.)
| | | | - Damary Martínez Porras
- Red Somos, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; (J.R.G.); (J.O.); (M.Á.B.T.); (J.J.L.); (J.F.R.C.); (D.M.P.)
| | | | | | - Paul B. Spiegel
- Department of International Health, Center for Humanitarian Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
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Bernal O, Garcia-Betancourt T, León-Giraldo S, Rodríguez LM, González-Uribe C. Impact of the armed conflict in Colombia: consequences in the health system, response and challenges. Confl Health 2024; 18:4. [PMID: 38172982 PMCID: PMC10762784 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00561-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Colombia, research on health and conflict has focused on mental health, psychosocial care, displacement, morbidity, and mortality. Few scientific studies have assessed health system functioning during armed conflicts. In a new period characterized by the implementation of the peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) armed group, understanding the effects of armed conflict on the health system, the functions, and institutions shaped by the conflict is an opportunity to understand the pathways and scope of post-conflict health policy reforms. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the effects of armed conflict on the health system, response, and mechanisms developed to protect medical missions during armed conflict in Colombia. METHODS This research was conducted using a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The qualitative guide collected information in four sections: (1) conflict and health system, effects and barriers in health service provision, (2) actions and coordination to cope with those barriers, (3) health policies and armed conflict, and (4) post-accord and current situation. Twenty-two people participated in the interviews, including eight policymakers at the national level and seven at the local level, including two NGOs and five members of international organizations. An academic project event in December 2019 and four focus groups were developed (World Cafe technique) to discuss with national and local stakeholders the effects of armed conflict on the health system and an analytical framework to analyze its consequences. RESULTS The conflict affected the health-seeking behavior of the population, limited access to healthcare provision, and affected health professionals, and was associated with inadequate medical supplies in conflict areas. The health system implemented mechanisms to protect the medical mission, regulate healthcare provision in conflict areas, and commit to healthcare provision (mental and physical health services) for the population displaced by conflict. CONCLUSION The state's presence, trust, and legitimacy have significantly reduced in recent years. However, it is crucial to restore them by ensuring that state and health services are physically present in all territories, including remote and rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Bernal
- Alberto Lleras Camargo School of Government, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, 11711, Colombia
| | | | - Sebastián León-Giraldo
- Alberto Lleras Camargo School of Government, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, 11711, Colombia.
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Restrepo MT, Padilla D, Ungemack J, Schensul S. Armed conflict effects in intimate partner violence: Revealing pathways using the socioecological framework. Glob Public Health 2024; 19:2394822. [PMID: 39188099 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2024.2394822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
We explored women's narratives about their experiences as victim-survivors of multiple forms of armed conflict violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) in Colombia and examined pathways that clarify the relationships between these two types of violence. Thematic analysis of 47 interviews identified connections that explain how armed conflict influences IPV at all levels of the socio-ecology. At the societal level, armed conflict events amplified patriarchal notions and intensified men's expressions of hypermasculinity through violence. At the community level, rules imposed by armed groups excused IPV if women did not comply with their traditional gender roles as wives and caretakers. At the relationship level, husbands/partners blamed victim-survivors of sexual violence perpetrated by armed groups, which intensified IPV situations. At the individual level, the armed conflict generated high levels of stress that contributed to increasing IPV. Results highlight the need to recognise armed conflict as an IPV risk factor that penetrates multiple socio-ecological domains. Post-conflict societies should consider the effects of the armed conflict on family dynamics and intimate partner relationships. Interventions should be developed to deconstruct hyper-militarised masculinity identities and traditional gender roles as an integral part of peace efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana Padilla
- Beatriz Lassalle Graduate School of Social Work, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Jane Ungemack
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Stephen Schensul
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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Carney JR. A Systematic Review of Barriers to Formal Supports for Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence in Spanish-Speaking Countries in Latin America. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:526-541. [PMID: 36869808 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231156196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) in Latin America (LA)'s Spanish-speaking countries have demonstrated great need for formal services, including medical, legal, and mental health supports. However, women's rates of formal help-seeking for IPV in the Americas remain extremely low. A systematic literature review was conducted to understand barriers to women's help-seeking for IPV in LA's Spanish-speaking countries. Five electronic databases were searched with search terms in English and Spanish related to IPV, help-seeking, and barriers. Articles were included in the review if they were published in peer-reviewed journals; original empirical research; published in English or Spanish; and had participants who were women exposed to IPV or service providers who worked with IPV-exposed women; and were conducted in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. 19 manuscripts were synthesized. Inductive thematic analysis of barriers to formal help-seeking for IPV identified in the articles resulted in five key themes: intrapersonal barriers, interpersonal barriers, organization-specific barriers, systemic barriers, and cultural barriers. Findings demonstrate the need to consider culture as a driving force in why women face extensive barriers to help-seeking across the social ecology. Suggestions for interventions at each level of the social ecology to better support women exposed to IPV in LA's Spanish-speaking countries are discussed.
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Murphy M, Ellsberg M, Balogun A, García-Moreno C. Risk and Protective Factors for Violence Against Women and Girls Living in Conflict and Natural Disaster-Affected Settings: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:3328-3345. [PMID: 36259449 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221129303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review provides an overview of existing research on risk and protective factors associated with violence against women and girls (VAWG) in conflict and natural disaster settings. PubMed (Medline); PsycINFO; Scopus; and Cochrane Center trials registrar were searched as well as relevant internet repositories for VAWG research. The inclusion criteria covered studies that were published between January 1995 and December 2020, documented risk and/or protective factors for VAWG in conflict or natural disaster-affected settings and included primary or secondary data analysis. A total of 1,413 records were initially identified and 86 articles (covering 77 studies) were included in the final analysis. The findings show that many preexisting risk factors for VAWG are exacerbated in armed conflict and natural disaster-affected settings. Poverty and economic stress, men's substance abuse, exposure to violence, changing gender roles in contexts of inequitable gender norms, and a lack of social support are some of the risk factors associated with male perpetration or female experience of violence. In addition, risk factors specific to experiences during armed conflict or in a natural disaster (e.g., displacement, insecurity or congestion in and around displacement camps, militarization of society, killing of family, destruction of property, etc.) are associated with higher prevalence of VAWG in these contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Murphy
- The Global Women's Institute, George Washington University, DC, USA
| | - Mary Ellsberg
- The Global Women's Institute, George Washington University, DC, USA
| | - Aminat Balogun
- The Global Women's Institute, George Washington University, DC, USA
| | - Claudia García-Moreno
- The Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Limbaugh L, Gordon MR, Nguyen PT, Porter M, Coverdale J. Methods Used to Control the Reproductive Choices of Women Who Are Sex Trafficked: Considerations for Health Care Providers. J Psychiatr Pract 2023; 29:439-446. [PMID: 37948169 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive control or reproductive coercion has negative health consequences but has not been systematically studied within the context of sex trafficking. Our goal is to identify the range of methods used by sex traffickers and buyers to control the reproductive choices of trafficked women and to provide specific examples of these methods. We searched PubMed, Embase, and PsycInfo using the terms "reproductive control" or "reproductive coercion" and "human trafficking" or "sex trafficking," including papers that contained original, specific examples of reproductive control occurring within the context of sex trafficking. These reports were described and categorized into established domains of reproductive control. Eight articles were located that met our inclusion criteria, of which 6 described outcomes of birth control sabotage, 2 described pressuring into pregnancy, 5 described controlling the outcome of a pregnancy, and 2 described forced birth control or sterilization. Our findings have implications for how to take sexual histories and for identifying and assisting trafficked persons.
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Rubini E, Valente M, Trentin M, Facci G, Ragazzoni L, Gino S. Negative consequences of conflict-related sexual violence on survivors: a systematic review of qualitative evidence. Int J Equity Health 2023; 22:227. [PMID: 37891663 PMCID: PMC10612192 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-023-02038-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflicts exacerbate dynamics of power and inequalities through violence normalization, which acts as a facilitator for conflict-related sexual violence. Literature addressing its negative outcomes on survivors is scant. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the qualitative evidence reported in scientific literature and focusing on the negative consequences of conflict-related sexual violence on victims' physical, psychological, and social dimensions of health in a gender-inclusive and disaggregated form. METHODS A literature search was conducted on January 13, 2023 on Pubmed, Scopus, and PsychArticles. The search strings combined two blocks of terms related to sexual violence and conflict. A time filter was applied, limiting the search to studies published in the last ten years. Information regarding the main characteristics and design of the study, survivors and their experience, and about conflict-related sexual violence was collected. The negative consequences of conflict-related sexual violence on the physical, psychological, and social dimension of victims were extracted according to the Biopsychosocial model of health. The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for systematic reviews and relied on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses. RESULTS After full text review, 23 articles met the inclusion criteria, with 18 of them reporting negative repercussions on physical health, all of them highlighting adverse psychological outcomes, and 21 disclosing unfavorable social consequences. The negative outcomes described in multiple studies were sexual and reproductive health issues, the most mentioned being pregnancy, manifestations of symptoms attributable to post-traumatic stress disorder, and stigma. A number of barriers to access to care were presented as emerging findings. CONCLUSIONS This review provided an analysis of the negative consequences of conflict-related sexual violence on survivors, thus highlighting the importance of qualitative evidence in understanding these outcomes and addressing barriers to access to care. Conflict-related sexual violence is a sexual and reproductive health issue. Sexuality education is needed at individual, community, and provider level, challenging gender norms and roles and encompassing gender-based violence. Gender-inclusive protocols and services need to be implemented to address the specific needs of all victims. Governments should advocate for SRHRs and translate health policies into services targeting survivors of CRSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rubini
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| | - Martina Valente
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
- Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 13100, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Monica Trentin
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Giulia Facci
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Luca Ragazzoni
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
- Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 13100, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Sarah Gino
- CRIMEDIM - Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
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Dahie HA, Dakane MM, Hassan BS. Prevalence, patterns, and determinants of gender-based violence among women and girls in IDP camps, Mogadishu-Somalia. J Migr Health 2023; 8:100193. [PMID: 37637858 PMCID: PMC10450962 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2023.100193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gender-based violence (GBV) against women and girls, is a global pandemic that affects 1 in 3 women in their lifetime. Somalia is one of the leading countries in human rights violations and has one of the highest rates of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) worldwide. Such violence is more prevalent among women and girls in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps who lack livelihood and civil protections. Therefore, this study was designed to identify the prevalence and the determinants of gender-based violence in IDP camps in Deynile district, Somalia. Methods This is a cross-sectional study design conducted in IDP camps in Deynile District from August 1 to September 30, 2022. A total of three hundred eighty-four women and girls aged 18 years and above living in the selected IDP camps were involved in the study. The camps were selected randomly while households and participants were selected systematic random sampling. The recall period was set at 12 months (August 2021 to July 2022). Participants were interviewed by well-trained research assistants using pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data was entered into and analyzed with SPSS 25.0. Logistic regression was used, and the significance level was set at p value ≤ 0.05. Result The study revealed that gender-based violence was quite common in the IDP camps in Mogadishu's Deynile area. Physical abuse was the most prevalent type of GBV, which was primarily committed by intimate partners, parents, and other family members. The main factors associated with gender-based violence were young age (OR=4.77, 95% CI: 1.96-11.63, p<0.001), extended family structure (OR=7.89, 95% CI: 4.30-14.47, p<0.001), household size >5 individuals (OR=1.86, 95% CI:1.04-3.30, p<0.005), employment (OR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.0.41-2.32, p<0.05), substance misuse (OR=3.25, 95% CI: 1.57-6.73, p<0.05), a long distance to the nearest police station (OR=2.75, 95% CI:1.51-5.00, p<0.005), and camp safety protection (OR=1.94, 95% CI:1.24-3.30, p<0.005). Conclusion and recommendations There was a high prevalence of gender-based violence in the IDP camps in Mogadishu's Deynile area. The most common form of GBV was physical violence mainly perpetuated by intimate partners. The study recommends improving some of the modifiable factors that were strongly associated with gender-based violence.
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Workie K, Tinsae T, Salelew E, Asrat B. Gender-based violence and its associated factors among internally displaced women in Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:166. [PMID: 37024889 PMCID: PMC10080783 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-based violence (GBV) is a common human right violence in conflict-affected communities. Women with GBV are prone to experience mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. However, there is a paucity of evidence as to what extent the problem is affecting internally displaced women (IDW) in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of GBV and its associated factors among IDW in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among IDW residing at three humanitarian sites from May to June 2022 in Northwest Ethiopia. Study participants were selected using a stratified simple random sampling technique from the three sites. GBV was assessed using a 6-item Assessment Screen to Identify Survivors Toolkit questionnaire for Gender-based violence (ASIST-GBV). Data were analyzed using binary logistic regression. All variables with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 in the multivariable analysis were defined to have a statistically significant association with GBV at a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Of 424 approached candidates, 412 (97.2%) of them participated in the study. A one-year prevalence of GBV was 37.9% (95%CI = 33.2-42.6) among IDW in Northwest Ethiopia. The mean age of the participants was 31.3 (± 7.6) years. Young women, 18-24 years old (AOR = 3.52, 95%CI = 2.15-5.34, p ≤ 0.001) and 25-29 years old (AOR = 2.41, 95%CI = 1.57-3.24, p ≤ 0.001) had a statistically significant association with GBV. Moreover, having no social protection (AOR = 3.18, 95%CI = 2.65-6.22, p ≤ 0.001), being current alcohol user (AOR = 2.54, 95%CI = 1.22-4.78, p ≤ 0.001) and being single in marital status (AOR = 1.69, 95%CI = 1.18-2.87, p < 0.01) showed a statistical association with GBV. CONCLUSION We found a high prevalence of GBV among IDW in Northwest Ethiopia which indicates that IDW are prone to GBV. We call for immediate action and special attention to young women in conflict-affected parts of Ethiopia. It is crucial to establish a system that ensures the safety, security, and well-being of women in humanitarian settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keralem Workie
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Techilo Tinsae
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.o.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Endalamaw Salelew
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.o.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Biksegn Asrat
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.o.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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14
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León-Giraldo S, Casas G, Cuervo-Sánchez JS, García T, González-Uribe C, Moreno-Serra R, Bernal O. Mental health disorders in population displaced by conflict in Colombia: Comparative analysis against the National Mental Health Survey 2015. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2023; 52:121-129. [PMID: 37453820 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcpeng.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Colombia is one of the countries with the highest levels of internal displacement resulting from armed conflict. This population has greater chances of experiencing a mental health disorder, especially in territories historically affected by armed conflict. Our objective was to compare the levels of possible mental health disorder in people experiencing internal displacement in Meta, Colombia, a department historically affected by armed conflict, compared to the internally displaced population in the National Mental Health Survey of 2015. METHODS Analysis of data collected in the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM) of 2015, study with representative data at national level and the Conflict, Peace and Health survey (CONPAS) of 2014, representative study of the degree of impact of the conflict on the municipality, conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia. To measure possible mental health disorder, the Self-Report Questionnaire-25 (SRQ-25) was used. Internal displacement is self-reported by people surveyed in both studies. An exploratory analysis is used to measure possible mental health disorders in the displaced population in the ENSM 2015 and CONPAS 2014. RESULTS 1089 adults were surveyed in CONPAS 2014 and 10,870 adults were surveyed in the ENSM 2015. 42.9% (468) and 8.7% (943) of people reported being internally displaced in CONPAS 2014 and ENSM 2015, respectively. In both studies, internally displaced populations have greater chances of experiencing any mental health disorder compared to non-displaced populations. For CONPAS 2014, 21.8% (95%CI, 18.1-25.8) of this population had a possible mental health disorder (SRQ+) compared to 14.0% (95%CI, 11.8-16.3) in the ENSM 2015. Compared with the ENSM 2015, at the regional level (CONPAS 2014), displaced people had a greater chance of presenting depression by 12.4% (95%CI, 9.5-15.7) compared to 5.7% (95%CI, 4.3-7.4) in the ENSM 2015, anxiety in 21.4% (95%CI, 17.7-25.3) compared to 16.5% (95%CI, 14.2-19.1) in the ENSM 2015, and psychosomatic disorders in 52.4% (95%CI, 47.5-56.7) in CONPAS 2014 compared to 42.2% (95%CI, 39.0-45.4) in the ENSM 2015. At the national level (ENSM 2015), displaced people had greater possibilities of presenting, compared to the regional level, suicidal ideation in 11.9% (95%CI, 9.3-14.1) compared to 7.3% (95%CI, 5.0-10.0) in CONPAS 2014 and bipolar disorder in 56.5% (95%CI, 53.2-59.7) compared to 39.3% (95%CI, 34.8-43.9) in CONPAS 2014. CONCLUSIONS The greater possibilities of displaced populations at the regional level of experiencing a mental health disorder, compared to this same population at the national level, may represent and indicate greater needs in mental health care services in territories affected by conflict. Therefore, and given the need to facilitate access to health services in mental health for populations especially affected by armed conflict, there is a need to design health care policies that facilitate the recovery of populations affected by war and, simultaneously, that reduce inequities and promote the fulfilment of one of the most important and, at the same time, least prioritised health objectives in international development: mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Germán Casas
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Tatiana García
- Escuela de Gobierno Alberto Lleras Camargo, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Oscar Bernal
- Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Bonilla-Escobar FJ, Fandiño-Losada A, Martinez-Buitrago DM, Santaella-Tenorio J, Escobar-Roldan I, Tobón-García D, Muñoz-Morales EJ, Babcock L, Duarte-Davidson E, Murray LK, Gutierrez-Martinez MI. Mental health Narrative Community-Based Group Therapy in violence-displaced Afro-Colombians: a randomized controlled trial. Med Confl Surviv 2023; 39:28-47. [PMID: 36815261 DOI: 10.1080/13623699.2023.2177951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the effect of a mental health Narrative Community-Based Group Therapy (NCGT) in Afro-Colombian violence survivors. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Buenaventura and Quibdó, Colombia. Afro-Colombian adults (n=521) were randomly allocated to a NCGT (n1=175), a wait-control group (n2=171) or a Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA, n3=175). The CETA was described separately given conceptual/methodological differences. Lay psychosocial community workers delivered the NCGT. Symptoms were assessed before and after intervention/wait with culturally adapted mental health symptoms and gender-specific functionality scales. Intent to treat analysis and mean difference of differences were used for comparisons. In Buenaventura, a significant reduction in functional impairment (mean difference: -0.30, 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI]: -0.55, -0.05) and depression (mean difference: -0.24, 95% CI: -0.42, -0.07) were found, with small and moderate effect size, respectively. In Quibdó, functionality improved significantly (mean difference: -0.29, 95% CI: -0.54, -0.04, small effect size). Even though differences in depression and anxiety were not significant, there were reductions in symptoms. The NCGT is effective in improving daily functioning among violence victims in the Colombian Pacific and has the potential to reduce symptoms of depression. Further exploration is required to understand the effects of a narrative group therapy for mental health in Afro-Colombian populations.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01856673 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01856673).
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Bonilla-Escobar
- Instituto Cisalva, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia.,Fundación Somos Ciencia al Servicio de la Comunidad, Fundación SCISCO/Science to Serve the Community Foundation, SCISCO Foundation, Cali, Colombia.,Institute for Clinical Research Education, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Julián Santaella-Tenorio
- Epidemiology Department, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lori Babcock
- Heartland Alliance International, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Laura K Murray
- Department of International Health and Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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16
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Padilla-Medina DM, Small E, Pavlova Nikolova S. Exploring Help-Seeking Predictors Among Colombian Victims of Intimate Partner Violence in Different Age Groups. Violence Against Women 2023; 29:202-228. [PMID: 35791515 DOI: 10.1177/10778012221088308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the extent, source, and individual, microsystem, exosystem, and macrosystem-level (Heise's Ecological Model) predictors of help-seeking behaviors among women of different age groups in Colombia. Data on 12,915 married or cohabitating women who had experienced diverse forms of intimate partner violence (IPV) were obtained from the Colombia Demographic Health Survey 2015. More than half of the Colombian women who reported some form of IPV experience did not seek any help. Women aged 25-39 were less likely to seek help. Type of violence and experience of IPV and education were the strongest predictors of help-seeking among women in all age groups. Implications for research and programming are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Padilla-Medina
- Graduate School of Social Work, 19878University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Eusebius Small
- School of Social Work, 12329University of Texas at Arlington, 211 S. Cooper St., Bldg. A, Arlington, Texas, United States
| | - Silviya Pavlova Nikolova
- Department of Social Medicine and Healthcare Organization, 317231Medical University of Varna, Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
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17
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Brown LJ, Lowe H, Gibbs A, Smith C, Mannell J. High-Risk Contexts for Violence Against Women: Using Latent Class Analysis to Understand Structural and Contextual Drivers of Intimate Partner Violence at the National Level. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:NP1007-NP1039. [PMID: 35298318 PMCID: PMC9709538 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221086642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Intimate partner violence (IPV) affects 1 in 3 women and poses a major human rights threat and public health burden, yet there is great variation in risk globally. Whilst individual risk factors are well-studied, less research has focussed on the structural and contextual drivers of IPV and how these co-occur to create contexts of high risk. Methods: We compiled IPV drivers from freely-accessible global country-level data sources and combined gender inequality, natural disasters, conflict, colonialism, socioeconomic development and inequality, homicide and social discrimination in a latent class analysis, and identified underlying 'risk contexts' based on fit statistics and theoretical plausibility (N=5,732 country-years; 190 countries). We used multinomial regression to compare risk contexts according to: proportion of population with disability, HIV/AIDS, refugee status, and mental health disorders; proportion of men with drug use disorders; men's alcohol consumption; and population median age (N=1,654-5,725 country-years). Finally, we compared prevalence of physical and/or sexual IPV experienced by women in the past 12 months across risk contexts (N=3,175 country-years). Results: Three distinct risk contexts were identified: 1) non-patriarchal egalitarian, low rates of homicide; 2) patriarchal post-colonial, high rates of homicide; 3) patriarchal post-colonial conflict and disaster-affected. Compared to non-patriarchal egalitarian contexts, patriarchal post-colonial contexts had a younger age distribution and a higher prevalence of drug use disorders, but a lower prevalence of mental health disorders and a smaller refugee population. IPV risk was highest in the two patriarchal post-colonial contexts and associated with country income classification. Conclusions: Whilst our findings support the importance of gender norms in shaping women's risk of experiencing IPV, they also point towards an association with a history of colonialism. To effectively address IPV for women in high prevalence contexts, structural interventions and policies are needed that address not only gender norms, but also broader structural inequalities arising from colonialism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Brown
- Institute for Global Health, University
College London, UK
| | - Hattie Lowe
- Institute for Global Health, University
College London, UK
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- Gender and Health Research Unit,
South
African Medical Research Council, South
Africa
- Centre for Rural Health, School of
Nursing and Public Health, University of
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global Health, University
College London, UK
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18
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Logie CH, Okumu M, Loutet M, Berry I, Lukone SO, Kisubi N, Mwima S, Kyambadde P. Mixed-methods findings from the Ngutulu Kagwero (agents of change) participatory comic pilot study on post-rape clinical care and sexual violence prevention with refugee youth in a humanitarian setting in Uganda. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2092178. [PMID: 35770702 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2092178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
There is a dearth of evidence-based post-rape clinical care interventions tailored for refugee adolescents and youth in low-income humanitarian settings. Comics, a low-cost, low-literacy and youth-friendly method, integrate visual images with text to spark emotion and share health-promoting information. We evaluated a participatory comic intervention to increase post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) knowledge and acceptance, and prevent sexual and gender-based violence, in Bidi Bidi refugee settlement, Uganda. Following a formative qualitative phase, we conducted a pre-test post-test pilot study with refugee youth (aged 16-24 years) (n = 120). Surveys were conducted before (t0), after (t1), and two-months following (t2) workshops. Among participants (mean age: 19.7 years, standard deviation: 2.4; n = 60 men, n = 60 women), we found significant increases from t0 to t1, and from t0 to t2 in: (a) PEP knowledge and acceptance, (b) bystander efficacy, and (c) resilient coping. We also found significant decreases from t0 to t1, and from t0 to t2 in sexual violence stigma and depression. Qualitative feedback revealed knowledge and skills acquisition to engage with post-rape care and violence prevention, and increased empathy to support survivors. Survivor-informed participatory comic books are a promising approach to advance HIV prevention through increased PEP acceptance and reduced sexual violence stigma with refugee youth.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04656522.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health (UNU-INWEH), Hamilton, Canada
| | - Moses Okumu
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Social Work, Uganda Christian University, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Miranda Loutet
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Isha Berry
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Nelson Kisubi
- Uganda Refugee and Disaster Management Council, Yumbe, Uganda
| | - Simon Mwima
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- National AIDS Coordinating Program, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kyambadde
- National AIDS Coordinating Program, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Most at Risk Population Initiative (MARPI), Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
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19
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Wessells MG, Kostelny K. The Psychosocial Impacts of Intimate Partner Violence against Women in LMIC Contexts: Toward a Holistic Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14488. [PMID: 36361364 PMCID: PMC9653845 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Work on the mental health impacts of intimate partner violence in low-and middle-income countries has focused primarily on clinical disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance abuse. This paper analyzes how non-clinical, psychosocial impacts from everyday stressors, particularly economic hardships and concern over one's children, cause extensive suffering and damage women survivors' well-being, influencing the development and expression of clinical disorders. Using a social ecological framework, the paper analyzes how psychosocial impacts arise at multiple levels, including societal levels where social norms often devalue women and privilege men, and how the stressor accumulation increases the harm caused by intimate partner violence (IPV) against women (IPVAW). Drawing on survivors' narratives and studies from diverse low and middle income country (LMIC) settings, including armed conflict and natural disaster settings, the paper underscores the importance of understanding both clinical impacts and the non-clinical, psychosocial impacts, which interact with and complement one another. Recognizing the interplay also between IPVAW and other forms of violence against girls and women, the paper calls for a more comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing the impacts of IPVAW. Recognizing the enormous variety within and across countries that are considered to be LMIC settings, the paper cautions against universalized approaches to understanding the effects of IPVAW and helping to support survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G. Wessells
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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20
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Logie CH, Okumu M, Latif M, Parker S, Hakiza R, Kibuuka Musoke D, Mwima S, Batte S, Kyambadde P. Relational Factors and HIV Testing Practices: Qualitative Insights from Urban Refugee Youth in Kampala, Uganda. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2191-2202. [PMID: 35098391 PMCID: PMC9162965 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03567-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Despite the global phenomenon of refugee urbanization, little is known of relational contexts that shape HIV testing among urban refugee youth. We explored perspectives, experiences, and preferences for social support in HIV testing among refugee youth aged 16-24 in Kampala, Uganda. We conducted five focus groups with refugee youth (n = 44) and five in-depth key informant interviews. Participant narratives signaled relational contexts shaping HIV testing included informal sources (intimate partners and family members) and formal sources (peer educators and professionals). There was heterogeneity in perspectives based on relationship dynamics. While some felt empowered to test with partners, others feared negative relationship consequences. Participant narratives reflected kinship ties that could facilitate testing with family, while others feared coercion and judgment. Peer support was widely accepted. Professional support was key for HIV testing as well as conflict-related trauma. Findings emphasize bonding and bridging social capital as salient components of enabling HIV testing environments.
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21
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Mahmood KI, Shabu SA, M-Amen KM, Hussain SS, Kako DA, Hinchliff S, Shabila NP. The Impact of COVID-19 Related Lockdown on the Prevalence of Spousal Violence Against Women in Kurdistan Region of Iraq. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP11811-NP11835. [PMID: 33637006 DOI: 10.1177/0886260521997929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing concern about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown's social and economic consequences on gender-based violence. This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender-based violence by comparing the prevalence of spousal violence against women before and during the COVID-19 related lockdown periods. This study was conducted in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq using a self-administered online questionnaire survey after the COVID-19 lockdown period in June 2020. Data were collected from a sample of 346 married women about the occurrence, frequency, and forms of spousal violence before and during the lockdown period. Significant increases in violence were observed from the pre-lockdown period to the lockdown period for any violence (32.1% to 38.7%, p = .001), emotional abuse (29.5% to 35.0%, p = .005), and physical violence (12.7% to 17.6%, p = .002). Regarding emotional abuse, humiliation (24.6% to 28.3%, p = .041) and scaring or intimidation (14.2% to 21.4%, p < .001) significantly increased during the lockdown. For physical violence, twisting the arm or pulling hair (9.0% to 13.0%, p = .004) and hitting (5.2% to 9.2%, p = .003) significantly increased during the lockdown. Forcing to have sexual intercourse also significantly increased during lockdown (6.6% to 9.5%., p = .021). The concerned authorities and women's rights organizations should collaborate to enhance the prevention of violence against women. An effective prevention strategy should emphasize recognizing and acknowledging the extent of the problem, raising awareness about the problem and the available resources to address it, and ensuring social and economic stability. Lessons learned about the increased prevalence of spousal violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to adopt appropriate strategies to prevent and address it will be valuable for similar future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sherzad A Shabu
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | | | | | - Diana A Kako
- College of Nursing, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Sharron Hinchliff
- Division of Nursing and Midwifery, Health Sciences School, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Nazar P Shabila
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
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22
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Alibhai KM, Ziegler BR, Meddings L, Batung E, Luginaah I. Factors impacting antenatal care utilization: a systematic review of 37 fragile and conflict-affected situations. Confl Health 2022; 16:33. [PMID: 35690840 PMCID: PMC9188725 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00459-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is estimated that over 930 million people live in fragile and conflict-affected situations (FCAS) worldwide. These regions, characterized by violence, civil unrest, and war, are often governed by corrupt administrations who are unwilling to provide their citizens with basic human rights. Individuals living in FCAS face health inequities; however, women are disproportionally affected and face additional barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive services, including antenatal care (ANC). This systematic review aims to identify the factors that impact ANC usage in the 37 countries or regions classified as FCAS in 2020 by The World Bank. METHODS Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of five databases (SCOPUS, Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL) was conducted. Results were limited to human studies, written in English, and published between January 2002 and January 2022. Studies that identified factors affecting utilization of ANC or maternal health services were included for review and critically appraised using the National Institute of Health's Quality Assessment Tools. Findings were summarized using a narrative synthesis approach. RESULTS The database search yielded 26,527 studies. After title, abstract and full-text review, and exclusion of duplicate articles, 121 studies remained. Twenty-eight of the 37 FCAS were represented in the included studies. The studies highlighted that women in FCAS' are still not meeting the World Health Organization's 2002 recommendation of four ANC visits during pregnancy, a recommendation which has since been increased to eight visits. The most cited factors impacting ANC were socioeconomic status, education, and poor quality of ANC. Despite all studies being conducted in conflict-affected regions, only nine studies explicitly identified conflict as a direct barrier to accessing ANC. CONCLUSION This review demonstrated that there is a paucity in the literature examining the direct and indirect impacts of conflict on ANC utilization. Specifically, research should be conducted in the nine FCAS that are not currently represented in the literature. To mitigate the barriers that prevent utilization of maternal health services identified in this review, policy makers, women utilizing ANC, and global organizations should attempt to collaborate to enact policy change at the local level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bianca R Ziegler
- DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Louise Meddings
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Evans Batung
- Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Environment Health and Hazards Lab, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Isaac Luginaah
- Department of Geography, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Environment Health and Hazards Lab, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
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23
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Treves-Kagan S, Peterman A, Gottfredson NC, Villaveces A, Moracco KE, Maman S. Love in the Time of War: Identifying Neighborhood-level Predictors of Intimate Partner Violence from a Longitudinal Study in Refugee-hosting Communities. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP10170-NP10195. [PMID: 33446026 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520986267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A high prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) has been documented among women living in conflict-affected and refugee-hosting areas, but why this occurs is not well understood. Conflict and displacement deteriorate communities' social cohesion and community connectedness; these neighborhood social environments may influence individual IPV outcomes. We explored neighborhood-level social disorganization and cohesion as predictors of recent IPV in refugee-hosting communities in northern Ecuador by conducting multi-level logistic regression on a longitudinal sample of 1,312 women. Neighborhood social disorganization was marginally positively associated with emotional IPV (AOR: 1.17, 95% CI: .99, 1.38) and physical and/or sexual IPV (AOR: 1.20, 95% CI: .96, 1.51). This was partially mediated by neighborhood-level civic engagement in the case of emotional IPV. At the household level, perceived discrimination and experience of psychosocial stressors were risk factors for both types of IPV, whereas social support was protective. To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies to examine how neighborhood social factors influence IPV outcomes in refugee-hosting communities or in South America. As the world grapples with the largest number of displaced people in history, this research can inform prevention and response programming and reinforces the critical importance of promoting acceptance of refugees and immigrants and positively engaging all community members in civic life in refugee-hosting settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Suzanne Maman
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Koris A, Steven S, Akika V, Puls C, Okoro C, Bitrus D, Seff I, Deitch J, Stark L. Opportunities and challenges in preventing violence against adolescent girls through gender transformative, whole-family support programming in Northeast Nigeria. Confl Health 2022; 16:26. [PMID: 35550180 PMCID: PMC9096748 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00458-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Household violence is one of the most prevalent forms of gender-based violence faced by adolescent girls in humanitarian settings. A growing evidence base demonstrates the extent to which multiple forms of familial violence, including intimate partner violence, violence against children, and sibling violence overlap in the same households. However, existing evidence of family support programming that effectively reduces violence against girls by addressing intersecting forms of household violence are limited, particularly in the Global South. Through a qualitative implementation evaluation informed by a grounded theoretical approach, we explored the perceived impact of a gender transformative, whole-family support intervention aimed at building adolescent girls’ protective assets against violence, among program participants in two communities of internally displaced people Maiduguri, Borno State, Northeast Nigeria. Methods We conducted six in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions with adult caregivers; six participatory activities and four paired interviews with adolescent girls and boys; and 12 key informant interviews with program staff. Criterion sampling was used to recruit 21 male caregivers, 21 female caregivers, 23 adolescent boys, and 21 adolescent girls; purposive sampling was used to recruit 12 program staff to participate in qualitative research activities. We audio recorded, translated, and transcribed all interviews. In a collaborative coding process, a multi-stakeholder team used applied thematic analysis in Dedoose to identify emergent themes in the data. Results Participants reported a decreased tolerance for and perpetration of violence against girls at the household level, and endorsed their right to protection from violence at the community level. However, alongside these self-reported changes in attitude and behavior, aspects of normative, patriarchal norms governing the treatment of adolescent girls were maintained by participants. Conclusions This study builds the evidence base for gender transformative, whole-family support programming and its impact on preventing violence against adolescent girls in humanitarian emergencies. Situating our findings in a feminist analysis of violence, this study calls attention to the complexity of gender norms change programming amongst families in conflict-affected settings, and highlights the need for programming which holistically addresses the relational, community, and structural drivers of violence against girls in emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Koris
- Women's Refugee Commission, 15 W. 37th St, New York, NY, 10018, USA
| | - Shadrack Steven
- Mercy Corps Nigeria, 35 Patrick Bokkor Crescent, Jabi, Utako District, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Veronica Akika
- Mercy Corps Nigeria, 35 Patrick Bokkor Crescent, Jabi, Utako District, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Cassondra Puls
- Women's Refugee Commission, 15 W. 37th St, New York, NY, 10018, USA
| | - Charles Okoro
- Mercy Corps Nigeria, 35 Patrick Bokkor Crescent, Jabi, Utako District, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - David Bitrus
- Mercy Corps Nigeria, 35 Patrick Bokkor Crescent, Jabi, Utako District, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ilana Seff
- Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Julianne Deitch
- Women's Refugee Commission, 15 W. 37th St, New York, NY, 10018, USA
| | - Lindsay Stark
- Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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25
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Gonzalez C, Mera-Gaona M, Tobar H, Pabón A, Muñoz N. TSIUNAS: A Videogame for Preventing Gender-Based Violence. Games Health J 2022; 11:117-131. [PMID: 35438550 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2021.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Gender-based violence (GBV) is a public health problem worldwide. Nonetheless, in rural areas and low-income countries, the problem may be more difficult to eradicate because there are stereotypes that reinforce negative attitudes toward women, which increase the severity of the problem. Goal: This article presents the development of "Tsiunas," a videogame designed to increase GBV awareness. By implementing game situations that represent attitudes and beliefs that justify unequal and violent relationships between men and women, this videogame attempts to transform attitudes and thoughts entrenched in a patriarchal society model. Results: Tsiunas was evaluated in two phases to: (1) validate the usability and stability of the game and (2) validate the potential change in students' perception regarding GBV situations and recognition of co-responsible masculinities. Both evaluations were carried out through surveys. The results showed that students had a high level of acceptance and appropriation of the content and message of the videogame. Conclusions: The findings allowed to conclude that the game situations presented in Tsiunas influenced changes of opinion in men and women regarding entrenched beliefs about patriarchal patterns, tolerance levels of violence against women, and attitudes toward violence against women. Likewise, the videogame supported the recognition of co-responsible masculinities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Gonzalez
- Grupo en Inteligencia Computacional-GICO, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Maritza Mera-Gaona
- Grupo en Inteligencia Computacional-GICO, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Hendrys Tobar
- Grupo en Inteligencia Computacional-GICO, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Andrea Pabón
- Grupo en Inteligencia Computacional-GICO, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Nancy Muñoz
- Red de Mujeres del Cauca-REDEMUC, Popayán, Colombia
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Sharma V, Ausubel E, Heckman C, Rastogi S, Kelly JTD. Promising practices for the monitoring and evaluation of gender-based violence risk mitigation interventions in humanitarian response: a multi-methods study. Confl Health 2022; 16:11. [PMID: 35248125 PMCID: PMC8898064 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00442-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Risks of gender-based violence (GBV) are exacerbated in humanitarian crises. GBV risk mitigation interventions aim to reduce exposure to GBV and ensure that humanitarian response actions and services themselves do not cause harm or increase the risk of violence. The 2015 IASC Guidelines for Integrating Gender-Based Violence Interventions in Humanitarian Action (‘GBV Guidelines’) are a globally endorsed resource that provides comprehensive guidance for all humanitarian actors and sectors on GBV risk mitigation. While uptake of GBV risk mitigation approaches across multiple humanitarian sectors has occurred, there is limited understanding of how to monitor and evaluate GBV risk mitigation interventions. Methods A multi-methods study was conducted in 2019 to identify promising practices for the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of GBV risk mitigation interventions in non-GBV sectors and to develop a set of illustrative case examples. The study included a comprehensive desk review of 145 articles, documents and resources from the published and grey literature, as well as 11 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions with humanitarian practitioners. Using Dedoose software and a codebook developed a priori, qualitative data were transcribed and coded and a content analysis was conducted. Excerpts focusing on promising practices from the qualitative data and the desk review were analyzed together and grouped by thematic area. Similar promising practices were combined and consolidated to create a final list, and case examples were identified. Results Current promising practices for M&E of GBV risk mitigation activities in the following categories are described: (1) Coordination and collaboration, (2) Designing M&E approaches and tools for GBV risk mitigation activities, (3) Contextualization, (4) Developing and selecting indicators, (5) Data collection, (6) Data analysis and use of findings, (7) Potential safety concerns for affected populations and staff, and (8) Staff capacity and engagement. These are supplemented with seven diverse case examples to illustrate application of the promising practices using real-world examples. Conclusion This paper highlights current promising practices for M&E of GBV risk mitigation interventions in humanitarian response. Further application of these practices—alongside ongoing documentation of emerging approaches—will be critical to ensuring that GBV risk mitigation interventions are more rigorously tested with the aim of building the evidence base on the effectiveness of different GBV risk mitigation interventions within specific humanitarian sectors.
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27
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Strategic Allocation of Development Projects in Post-Conflict Regions: A Gender Perspective for Colombia. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14042304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We know little about the general geographic allocation of development projects in post-conflict regions, and specifically of gender-focused projects. In this study, we explore whether donor agencies prefer to work in “safe” places or dare to operate in conflict-affected zones. Using Colombia as a case study, we combine data on battle deaths from the UCDP Georeferenced Event Dataset (1994–2004) with georeferenced information on the location of development projects from the Colombia AIMS dataset (2006–2013) and manually geocode data for German-funded development projects (2012–2018) with gender as a significant objective. Using count models (N = 1120), we find a statistically strong and positive relationship: an increase in battle deaths increases the number of development projects (with and without gender-focus) in a municipality. Interaction models further reveal an amplification of this relationship for regions with a large proportion of female-headed households, as well as a high number of formally employed and literate women. A context-sensitive interpretation of our findings suggests that (1) development projects in general, and German-funded gender-focused projects in particular, dare to operate in post-conflict settings; (2) women may play an active role as community leaders and mobilizers to influence the allocation of development programs to certain regions.
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28
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León-Giraldo S, Casas G, Cuervo-Sanchez JS, González-Uribe C, Bernal O, Moreno-Serra R, Suhrcke M. Health in Conflict Zones: Analyzing Inequalities in Mental Health in Colombian Conflict-Affected Territories. Int J Public Health 2021; 66:595311. [PMID: 34744562 PMCID: PMC8565266 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.595311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Colombia’s civil conflict and persistent socio-economic disparities have contributed to mental health inequalities in conflict-affected territories. We explore the magnitude of mental health inequalities, contributing socio-economic factors, and sociodemographic characteristics that explain these differences. Methods: The study draws on data collected in 2018, using the household survey Conflicto, Paz y Salud (CONPAS) applied to 1,309 households in Meta, Colombia. Logistic regression and decomposition analysis were used to analyze the risk of mental health disorders, measured with the Self-Reporting Questionnaire -20 (SRQ-20). Results: Individuals with lower socio-economic status are at a higher risk for mental health disorders. Forced displacement accounts for 31% of the measured mental health inequalities. Disparities in employment, education level, disability and conflict incidence between municipalities are other contributing factors. Women and people with disabilities are respectively 2.3 and 1.2 times more prone to present a mental health disorder. Conclusion: It is necessary to tackle the identified risk factors and sociodemographic circumstances that contribute to mental health inequalities in conflict-affected territories, as these hinder adequate/equitable access to mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián León-Giraldo
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Development Studies, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.,Alberto Lleras Camargo School of Government, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Germán Casas
- School of Medicine, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.,Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá University Hospital, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Oscar Bernal
- Alberto Lleras Camargo School of Government, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Marc Suhrcke
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, York, United Kingdom.,Luxembourg, Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER), Luxembourg
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Development and Testing of a Community-Based Intervention to Address Intimate Partner Violence among Rohingya and Syrian Refugees: A Social Norms-Based Mental Health-Integrated Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111674. [PMID: 34770188 PMCID: PMC8582911 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the leading form of gender-based violence globally and increases during times of conflict and displacement. To reduce IPV and encourage help-seeking, a two-phase community-based intervention was co-designed with Rohingya in Malaysia and Syrians in Lebanon. Three day workshops, utilizing a social norms-based mental health-integrated approach, were implemented for women and men in each country (n = 148). Pre- to post-measures indicated reductions in beliefs about acceptability of violence and rigid gender norms, and improvements in mental health, functioning, coping, and self-efficacy for women and men following workshop participation. Workshop participation was also associated with increased help-seeking intent, for both mental health and IPV (victims and perpetrators). Workshops included community design of poster campaigns to address IPV, which were then tested in each setting using a randomized controlled trial in Malaysia (n = 240) and a matched cluster comparison in Lebanon (n = 260). Women in both settings found IPV less acceptable in the poster condition. Help-seeking preferences were also influenced by the poster for women and men in both countries. This participatory intervention research can provide a roadmap for use in other settings, emphasizing the value of community-generated solutions to IPV among displaced populations.
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30
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Monsalve SD, Vargas-Monroy AM, Ariza JE, Oñate Cuello AM, Ropero Vera AR, Bermudez Cuello JC, Arzuaga Zuleta L, Cubillos Novella AF, Peñaloza Quintero E, Fernández Ortiz YN, Carrillo MA, Kroeger A. Mental health among displaced and non-displaced populations in Valledupar, Colombia: do inequalities continue? Pathog Glob Health 2021; 116:305-318. [PMID: 34689701 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2021.1989186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During the long-lasting civil war in Colombia, thousands of people were displaced mainly from rural to urban areas, causing social disruption and prolonged poverty. This study aimed at analyzing the traumatic experience many years ago on the current psycho-emotional status of displaced families as well as the ongoing inequalities regarding displaced and non-displaced communities in one of the most affected areas by the armed conflict. An interview survey was conducted among 211 displaced families and 181 non-displaced families in 2 adjacent compounds in Valledupar, Colombia. The questionnaire used questions from the validated national survey and was revised and applied by staff members of the departmental secretary of health who conducted additional in-depth interviews. The study showed that the living conditions of the displaced community were precarious. The past traumatic events many years ago and the current difficult living conditions are associated with psychological problems being more frequent among the displaced people. The displaced people had experienced more violent acts and subsequently had a larger number of emotional symptoms (fright, headache, nervousness, depression, and sleeplessness). Other stress factors like economic problems, severe disease or death of family members and unemployment prevailed among displaced persons. The non-displaced lived in a more protected environment with less exposure to violence and stress, although belonging to a similarly low socio-economic stratum. It is recommended to take measures for a better protection of the displaced community, improve their access to the job market, offer different leisure activities and facilitate public transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Diaz Monsalve
- Albert-Ludwigs Universitaet Freiburg, Centre for Medicine and Society, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Axel Kroeger
- Albert-Ludwigs Universitaet Freiburg, Centre for Medicine and Society, Freiburg, Germany
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31
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Hourani J, Block K, Phillimore J, Bradby H, Ozcurumez S, Goodson L, Vaughan C. Structural and Symbolic Violence Exacerbates the Risks and Consequences of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence for Forced Migrant Women. FRONTIERS IN HUMAN DYNAMICS 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fhumd.2021.769611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
While much attention is focused on rape as a weapon of war, evidence shows that forced migrant women and girls face increased risks of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) both during and following forced displacement. In this paper, we argue that gendered forms of structural and symbolic violence enable and compound the harms caused by interpersonal SGBV against forced migrant women and girls. These forms of violence are encountered in multiple contexts, including conflict and post-conflict settings, countries of refuge, and following resettlement. This paper illustrates the consequences of resultant cumulative harms for individuals and communities, and highlights the importance of considering these multiple, intersecting harms for policy and practice.
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32
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Lennon SE, Aramburo AMR, Garzón EMM, Arboleda MA, Fandiño-Losada A, Pacichana-Quinayaz SG, Muñoz GIR, Gutiérrez-Martínez MI. A qualitative study on factors associated with intimate partner violence in Colombia. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2021; 26:4205-4216. [PMID: 34586272 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232021269.21092020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a human rights violation and a serious global public health problem. This study investigated factors associated with IPV in female survivors in Colombia. Four focus group discussions with female survivors of IPV and 15 key informant interviews with professionals from psychological, social and legal services and community leaders were conducted in Cali and Tuluá. Participant recruitment was via purposive sampling. Transcripts were analysed manually taking a social constructivist standpoint and a content analysis approach. Factors associated with IPV were divided into four themes: cultural beliefs, jealousy, alcohol abuse, and personal history of IPV. The first theme was divided into: patriarchy, gender roles, normalisation of violence, and unawareness of rights, economic dependence, and 'men own women'. The sub-themes were all inter-related and underpinned by patriarchal values. IPV was described as a sociocultural construction formed by patriarchal values ingrained in community and societal norms and individual processes. Therefore, academia, governmental and non-governmental bodies and society are urged to together, create preventative, context specific strategies for individuals, communities and societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Evelyn Lennon
- Cisalva Institute, Universidad del Valle. Calle 4B No. 36-00 Edificio 135, Barrio San Fernando Viejo. Cali. 760043 Cali Colombia.
| | | | | | - María Adelaida Arboleda
- Cisalva Institute, Universidad del Valle. Calle 4B No. 36-00 Edificio 135, Barrio San Fernando Viejo. Cali. 760043 Cali Colombia. .,Red de Salud de Ladera ESE. Cali Colombia
| | - Andrés Fandiño-Losada
- Cisalva Institute, Universidad del Valle. Calle 4B No. 36-00 Edificio 135, Barrio San Fernando Viejo. Cali. 760043 Cali Colombia.
| | - Sara Gabriela Pacichana-Quinayaz
- Cisalva Institute, Universidad del Valle. Calle 4B No. 36-00 Edificio 135, Barrio San Fernando Viejo. Cali. 760043 Cali Colombia.
| | | | - María Isabel Gutiérrez-Martínez
- Cisalva Institute, Universidad del Valle. Calle 4B No. 36-00 Edificio 135, Barrio San Fernando Viejo. Cali. 760043 Cali Colombia.
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Logie CH, Okumu M, Lukone SO, Loutet M, McAlpine A, Latif M, Berry I, Kisubi N, Mwima S, Kyambadde P, Neema S, Small E, Balyejjusa SM, Musinguzi J. Ngutulu Kagwero (agents of change): study design of a participatory comic pilot study on sexual violence prevention and post-rape clinical care with refugee youth in a humanitarian setting in Uganda. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1940763. [PMID: 34402763 PMCID: PMC8381980 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1940763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
With over 1.4 million refugees, Uganda is Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest refugee-hosting nation. Bidi Bidi, Uganda’s largest refugee settlement, hosts over 230,000 residents. There is a dearth of evidence-based sexual violence prevention and post-rape clinical care interventions in low- and middle-income humanitarian contexts tailored for refugee youth. Graphic medicine refers to juxtaposing images and narratives, often through using comics, to convey health promotion messaging. Comics can offer youth-friendly, low-cost, scalable approaches for sexual violence prevention and care. Yet there is limited empirical evaluation of comic interventions for sexual violence prevention and post-rape clinical care. This paper details the study design used to develop and pilot test a participatory comic intervention focused on sexual violence prevention through increasing bystander practices, reducing sexual violence stigma, and increasing post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) knowledge with youth aged 16–24 and healthcare providers in Bidi Bidi. Participants took part in a single-session peer-facilitated workshop that explored social, sexual, and psychological dimensions of sexual violence, bystander interventions, and post-rape clinical care. In the workshop, participants completed a participatory comic book based on narratives from qualitative data conducted with refugee youth sexual violence survivors. This pilot study employed a one-group pre-test/post-test design to assess feasibility outcomes and preliminary evidence of the intervention’s efficacy. Challenges included community lockdowns due to COVID-19 which resulted in study implementation delays, political instability, and attrition of participants during follow-up surveys. Lessons learned included the important role of youth facilitation in youth-centred interventions and the promise of participatory comics for youth and healthcare provider engagement for developing solutions and reducing stigma regarding SGBV. The Ngutulu Kagwero (Agents of change) project produced a contextually and age-tailored comic intervention that can be implemented in future fully powered randomized controlled trials to determine effectiveness in advancing sexual violence prevention and care with youth in humanitarian contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health (UNU-INWEH), Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Moses Okumu
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Miranda Loutet
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alyssa McAlpine
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maya Latif
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isha Berry
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nelson Kisubi
- Uganda Refugee and Disaster Management Council, Yumbe, Uganda
| | - Simon Mwima
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,National AIDS Coordinating Program, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Kyambadde
- National AIDS Coordinating Program, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda.,Most at Risk Population Initiative (MARPI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stella Neema
- Department of Anthropology & Sociology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Eusebius Small
- School of Social Work, University of Texas Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
| | | | - Joshua Musinguzi
- National AIDS Coordinating Program, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
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Hicks MHR, Mohsin M, Silove D, Fisher J, Moussa B, Steel Z, Nancarrow H, Nadar N, Klein L, Hasoun F, Yousif M, Khalil B, Krishna Y, Rees SJ. Attitudes towards gender roles and prevalence of intimate partner violence perpetrated against pregnant and postnatal women: Differences between women immigrants from conflict-affected countries and women born in Australia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255105. [PMID: 34329321 PMCID: PMC8323950 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to compare, for the first time in a large systematic study, women born in conflict-affected countries who immigrated to Australia with women born in Australia for attitudes towards gender roles and men's use of IPV and the actual prevalence of IPV. The study also examined if any associations remained across the two timepoints of pregnancy and postpartum. METHODS Women were interviewed during their first visit to one of three Australian public hospital antenatal clinics and re-interviewed at home six months after giving birth. A total of 1111 women completed both interviews, 583 were born in conflict-affected countries and 528 born in Australia. Associations between attitudes towards gender roles and men's use of IPV, socio-demographic characteristics and reported actual experiences of IPV were examined using bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Attitudes toward inequitable gender roles including those that condone men's use of IPV, and prevalence of IPV, were significantly higher (p<0.001) among women born in conflict-affected countries compared to Australia-born women. Women born in conflict-affected countries with the strongest held attitudes towards gender roles and men's use of IPV had an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 3.18 for IPV at baseline (95% CI 1.85-5.47) and an aOR of 1.83 for IPV at follow-up (95% CI 1.11-3.01). Women born in Australia with the strongest held attitudes towards gender roles and IPV had an aOR of 7.12 for IPV at baseline (95% CI 2.12-23.92) and an aOR of 10.59 for IPV at follow-up (95% CI 2.21-50.75). CONCLUSIONS Our results underscore the need for IPV prevention strategies sensitively targeted to communities from conflict-affected countries, and for awareness among clinicians of gender role attitudes that may condone men's use of IPV, and the associated risk of IPV. The study supports the need for culturally informed national strategies to promote gender equality and to challenge practices and attitudes that condone men's violence in spousal relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelyn Hsiao-Rei Hicks
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Mohammed Mohsin
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Mental Health Academic Unit, Liverpool Hospital, South Western Sydney Area Health Service, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Derrick Silove
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- Women and Global Health Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Batool Moussa
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zachary Steel
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- St John of God Health Care, Richmond Hospital, North Richmond, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Heather Nancarrow
- School of Social Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nawal Nadar
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louis Klein
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Mental Health Academic Unit, Liverpool Hospital, South Western Sydney Area Health Service, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fatima Hasoun
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mariam Yousif
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Batoul Khalil
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yalini Krishna
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan J. Rees
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Al-Natour A, Morris EJ, Mohammad Al-Ostaz S. Through Her Eyes: The Impact of War on Syrian Refugee Families. J Transcult Nurs 2021; 33:26-32. [PMID: 34323146 DOI: 10.1177/10436596211026367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Syrian war conflict ended with devastating impact on Syrian refugee women and their children. A few studies have been done that explored the impact of the civil war and displacement of Syrian families from a cultural perspective. The purpose of this study was to highlight the experiences of the Syrian war-refugee families who have sought shelter in a host country. METHOD A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted using a semistructured interview approach among 16 Syrian refugee women who were approached from two Jordanian health care centers. RESULTS The main themes discussed how the war ended with financial and social stress, family violence, and hazardous effects on women and children health. CONCLUSION This article introduced how culture and religion influence how family unit and members responded to war stressors. This study provided transcultural nursing knowledge, allowing nurses to be grounded in individualized culturally specific care.
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León-Giraldo S, Casas G, Cuervo-Sánchez JS, García T, González-Uribe C, Moreno-Serra R, Bernal O. Mental Health Disorders in Population Displaced by Conflict in Colombia: Comparative Analysis against the National Mental Health Survey 2015. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2021; 52:S0034-7450(21)00089-5. [PMID: 34246471 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Colombia is one of the countries with the highest levels of internal displacement resulting from armed conflict. This population has greater chances of experiencing a mental health disorder, especially in territories historically affected by armed conflict. Our objective was to compare the levels of possible mental health disorder in people experiencing internal displacement in Meta, Colombia, a department historically affected by armed conflict, compared to the internally displaced population in the National Mental Health Survey of 2015. METHODS Analysis of data collected in the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM) of 2015, study with representative data at national level and the Conflict, Peace and Health survey (CONPAS) of 2014, representative study of the degree of impact of the conflict on the municipality, conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia. To measure possible mental health disorder, the Self-Report Questionnaire - 25 (SRQ-25) was used. Internal displacement is self-reported by people surveyed in both studies. An exploratory analysis is used to measure possible mental health disorders in the displaced population in the ENSM 2015 and CONPAS 2014. RESULTS 1,089 adults were surveyed in CONPAS 2014 and 10,870 adults were surveyed in the ENSM 2015. 42.9% (468) and 8.7% (943) of people reported being internally displaced in CONPAS 2014 and ENSM 2015, respectively. In both studies, internally displaced populations have greater chances of experiencing any mental health disorder compared to non-displaced populations. For CONPAS 2014, 21.8% (95%CI, 18.1-25.8) of this population had a possible mental health disorder (SRQ+) compared to 14.0% (95%CI, 11.8-16.3) in the ENSM 2015. Compared with the ENSM 2015, at the regional level (CONPAS 2014), displaced people had a greater chance of presenting depression by 12.4% (95%CI, 9.5-15.7) compared to 5.7% (95%CI, 4.3-7.4) in the ENSM 2015, anxiety in 21.4% (95%CI, 17.7-25.3) compared to 16.5% (95%CI, 14.2-19.1) in the ENSM 2015, and psychosomatic disorders in 52.4% (95%CI, 47.5-56.7) in CONPAS 2014 compared to 42.2% (95%CI, 39.0-45.4) in the ENSM 2015. At the national level (ENSM 2015), displaced people had greater possibilities of presenting, compared to the regional level, suicidal ideation in 11.9% (95%CI, 9.3-14.1) compared to 7.3% (95%CI, 5.0-10.0) in CONPAS 2014 and bipolar disorder in 56.5% (95%CI, 53.2-59.7) compared to 39.3% (95%CI, 34.8-43.9) in CONPAS 2014. CONCLUSIONS The greater possibilities of displaced populations at the regional level of experiencing a mental health disorder, compared to this same population at the national level, may represent and indicate greater needs in mental health care services in territories affected by conflict. Therefore, and given the need to facilitate access to health services in mental health for populations especially affected by armed conflict, there is a need to design health care policies that facilitate the recovery of populations affected by war and, simultaneously, that reduce inequities and promote the fulfilment of one of the most important and, at the same time, least prioritised health objectives in international development: mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián León-Giraldo
- Escuela de Gobierno Alberto Lleras Camargo, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia; Centro de Estudios Sobre Desarrollo CIDER, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Germán Casas
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia; Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Tatiana García
- Escuela de Gobierno Alberto Lleras Camargo, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Oscar Bernal
- Escuela de Gobierno Alberto Lleras Camargo, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
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Keating C, Treves-Kagan S, Buller AM. Intimate partner violence against women on the Colombia Ecuador border: a mixed-methods analysis of the liminal migrant experience. Confl Health 2021; 15:24. [PMID: 33832514 PMCID: PMC8028576 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-021-00351-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) has serious long-term health and psychological consequences and is highly prevalent in Latin America and among displaced populations. Liminality - the ambiguous in-between state of individuals completing a migratory journey - represents a state of legal, economic, and physical insecurity. Through the framework of liminality, this analysis seeks to understand the unique challenges faced by displaced Colombian women in Ecuador including their experience of IPV. Methods We performed a secondary analysis of 15 in-depth interviews and 319 longitudinal surveys, conducted on the border of Ecuador and Colombia, following a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. We analysed interviews thematically and mapped the main themes onto complementary quantitative variables. We conducted logistic regression with identified risk and protective factors (measured at time 1) and recent IPV (measured at time 2), controlling for demographic characteristics and IPV at time 1. Results Our mixed-methods analysis revealed four main mechanisms by which displacement influenced the social and economic realities of Colombian women years after crossing the border, compounding their risk of IPV and limiting their ability to escape it. Lack of legal residence and documentation, violence experienced along life course and migratory continuums which increased their risk for later revictimisation, social isolation including loss of support networks and restricted mobility and lastly, financial stress. Conclusions This research highlights the critical importance of supporting the economic and social integration of migrants and refugees in host communities, as well as the need to carefully consider migration-related vulnerabilities in IPV prevention and response interventions. As the regional refugee crisis grows, policy makers must consider how the long-term marginalisation of refugee women contributes to their victimisation. This research also supports the idea of incorporating gender synchronised, transformative IPV prevention and response programmes into migration-related and poverty alleviation international development efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Keating
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, England
| | - Sarah Treves-Kagan
- Department of Health Behaviour, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Ana Maria Buller
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, England.
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Sarmiento-Marulanda LC, Aguilera-Char AA, González-Gil C, López-López W. Psychosocial rehabilitation experiences of women victims of armed conflict in Montes de María, Colombia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 79:31. [PMID: 33691768 PMCID: PMC7945365 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-021-00548-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background After 9 years of the ground-breaking social policy Law 1448 of 2011 -Victims Law- and its extension until 2030, the Colombian State and other stakeholders have made several efforts towards granting the right of integral reparation for more than 9 million victims that are recognized in the Colombian transitional context. Psychosocial rehabilitation is a Victims Law’s reparation measure whose objective is to re-establish the psychosocial, physical and mental health welfare in the individual, familiar and community levels. This study aims to understand the experiences of psychosocial rehabilitation of women victims of armed conflict in Montes de Maria and the underlying social intervention paradigms that guide the Law’s implementation. Methods Based on a qualitative design with a phenomenological approach, narrative tools and thematic network analysis permitted to give voice to the women participants. Individual narrative interviews were conducted with 12 women victims and a focus group with eight of them was used as a triangulation strategy. Results Although the Victims Law is oriented by a sociopolitical intervention paradigm, the stories of the women’s victims of Montes de María mainly evidenced non-sociopolitical interventions with humanitarian assistance towards revictimization and State abandonment. As a coping mechanism towards the State negligence encountered, women strive to overcome psychosocial trauma by developing agency and community resources for the resignification of the traumatic experiences and peacebuilding. Conclusions For the Victims Law to achieve its integrality aim, the psychosocial approach should be implemented through all its measures but remains absent in Montes de Maria. The diversity of victim’s individual and collective initiatives that were found, can contribute towards transformative and participatory psychosocial intervention with community’s resources. Women victims can perform as advisors and collaborators in the implementation of individual and collective reparation, which remains as an opportunity for psychosocial rehabilitation and peacebuilding. Further monitoring and evaluation of the law with a territorial and differential perspective is required to respond to the victim’s needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Camila Sarmiento-Marulanda
- Psychology Faculty and Head of Social and Organizational Psychology, Universidad de La Sabana, Campus Universitario del Puente del Común, Km. 7. Autopista Norte de Bogotá, Chia, Colombia.
| | - Amira Ayleen Aguilera-Char
- Psychology Faculty and Head of Social and Organizational Psychology, Universidad de La Sabana, Campus Universitario del Puente del Común, Km. 7. Autopista Norte de Bogotá, Chia, Colombia.,Law, Political and Social Sciences Faculty, Universidad La Gran Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Catalina González-Gil
- Psychology Faculty and Head of Social and Organizational Psychology, Universidad de La Sabana, Campus Universitario del Puente del Común, Km. 7. Autopista Norte de Bogotá, Chia, Colombia.,Psychology School, Universidad de La Sabana, Chia, Colombia
| | - Wilson López-López
- Psychology Faculty and Head of Social and Organizational Psychology, Universidad de La Sabana, Campus Universitario del Puente del Común, Km. 7. Autopista Norte de Bogotá, Chia, Colombia.,Psychology Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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Cadena-Camargo Y, Krumeich A, Duque-Páramo MC, Horstman K. Experiences of pregnancy in adolescence of internally displaced women in Bogotá: an ethnographic approach. Reprod Health 2020; 17:31. [PMID: 32122359 PMCID: PMC7053058 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-020-0889-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnancy in adolescence is higher among internally displaced women in Colombia than non-displaced women. It is defined as a problem with significant negative outcomes by both biomedical and epidemiological approaches. However, little is known about pregnancy during adolescence from the perspective of women who experienced this in the specific context of armed conflict and displacement. Aim This article focuses on how internally displaced women understand their experiences of pregnancy in adolescence in the context of armed conflict through an ethnographic approach in a receptor community of internally displaced women in Bogotá, Colombia. Methods Based on 10 years of experience in the community, we conducted 1 year of fieldwork, using an ethnographic approach. We collected life stories of 20 internally displaced women through in-depth interviews and ran 8 workshops with them and other women from the community. We used thematic analysis to analyse the responses of internally-displaced women and understand how they made meaning around their experiences of adolescent pregnancy in the context of displacement. Results The main themes that emerged from participants’ experiences include rural violence, early family life (characterized by violence and mistreatment at home), meanings of pregnancy at an early age (including being challenged and feelings of love), and reactions to their pregnancies during adolescence (such as stigmatization) from their families and partners. Conclusion Our analysis of the in-depth interviews and the workshops suggests that adolescent pregnancy among women who are internally displaced has complex dynamics, characterized by the violent context of the rural areas, but primarily by the violence experienced during their childhood. The experience of pregnancy during adolescence brings feelings of ownership and also challenges, together with the forced displacement. This understanding will provide insights for policy makers and healthcare providers on how to work with this specific population who have experienced pregnancy in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazmin Cadena-Camargo
- Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Anja Krumeich
- Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Klasien Horstman
- Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Logie CH, Okumu M, Mwima S, Hakiza R, Irungi KP, Kyambadde P, Kironde E, Narasimhan M. Social ecological factors associated with experiencing violence among urban refugee and displaced adolescent girls and young women in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study. Confl Health 2019; 13:60. [PMID: 31867053 PMCID: PMC6918605 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-019-0242-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on violence targeting urban forcibly displaced adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) is limited, particularly regarding polyvictimization (exposure to multiple forms of violence). Yet there is a global trend of refugee urbanization, and urban AGYW are at the nexus of violence disparities among adolescents, forcibly displaced persons, and slum dwellers. This study explored factors associated with young adulthood violence (> 16 years) (YAV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) among forcibly displaced AGYW in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey with forcibly displaced AGYW aged 16-24 from five informal settlement (slum) communities across Kampala (Kabalagala, Rubaga, Kansanga, Katwe, Nsambya) using peer network sampling. We assessed YAV (experienced at age 16 or above) (sexual, physical, emotional violence) and recent (past 12-month) IPV (physical, sexual, control violence). We conducted descriptive statistics, followed by multinomial logistic regression analyses to explore social ecological factors (e.g., intrapersonal: depression; interpersonal: sexual relationship power, community: food insecurity) associated with experiencing YAV and YAV polyvictimization, and IPV and IPV polyvictimization. RESULTS Over half of participants (n = 333; mean age = 19.31; SD = 2.56, range = 16-24) reported YAV (n = 179; 53.7%) and 9.3% (n = 41) reported YAV polyvictimization. Most participants that were in an intimate relationship in the last 12 months (n = 200; 85.8%) reported IPV, among these, 45.5% reported one form of IPV and 54.5% reported IPV polyvictimization. In adjusted analyses, experiencing any YAV was significantly associated with: adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) stigma; sexual relationship power; mobile app usage; depressive symptoms; childhood abuse; and childhood polyvictimization. In adjusted analyses YAV polyvictimization was associated with: depressive symptoms; childhood polyvictimization; sexual relationship power; and food insecurity. Recent IPV polyvictimization in adjusted analyses was associated with owning/using a mobile phone and depressive symptoms. Participants with higher sexual relationship power had lower odds of recent IPV polyvictimization. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that YAV and IPV polyvictimization require urgent attention among forcibly displaced AGYW in Kampala. Multi-level strategies are required to address intrapersonal e.g. (depression), interpersonal (e.g. childhood abuse, sexual relationship power) and community (e.g. adolescent SRH stigma, food insecurity) factors associated with experiencing violence. Future research can tailor approaches to advance health, agency and human rights among urban forcibly displaced AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H. Logie
- Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4 Canada
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON M5G 1N8 Canada
| | - Moses Okumu
- Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4 Canada
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 325 Pittsboro ST CB#3550, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
- National STI Control Unit, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon Mwima
- AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Plot 6, Lourdel Road, Nakasero, Kampala, Uganda
- Most At Risk Population Initiative, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Hakiza
- Most At Risk Population Initiative, Kampala, Uganda
- Young African Refugees for Integral Development (YARID), Nsambya Gogonya, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Peter Kyambadde
- National STI Control Unit, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
- AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Plot 6, Lourdel Road, Nakasero, Kampala, Uganda
- Most At Risk Population Initiative, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Manjulaa Narasimhan
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, CH-1211, 27 Geneva, Switzerland
- World Health Organization, Department of Reproductive Health and Research, including the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme (HRP), Geneva, Switzerland
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Macleod CK, Binnawi KH, Elshafie BE, Sadig HE, Hassan A, Cocks N, Willis R, Chu B, Solomon AW. Unimproved water sources and open defecation are associated with active trachoma in children in internally displaced persons camps in the Darfur States of Sudan. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2019; 113:599-609. [PMID: 31612959 PMCID: PMC6792159 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trz042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the proportion of children with trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) and adults with trachomatous trichiasis (TT) in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the Darfur States of Sudan and to evaluate associated risk factors. METHODS IDP camps were identified from government census data. We conducted a subanalysis of data collected in these camps during 2014-2015 as part of surveys covering 37 districts of the Darfur States within the Global Trachoma Mapping Project. A random-effects hierarchical model was used to evaluate factors associated with TF in children or TT in adults. RESULTS Thirty-six IDP camps were represented in the survey data, in which 1926 children aged 1-9 y were examined, of whom 38 (8%) had TF. Poor sanitation, younger age and living in a household that purchased water from a vendor were associated with TF in children aged 1-9 y. Of 2139 individuals examined aged ≥15 y, 16 (0.7%) had TT. TT was strongly independently associated with being older and living alone. CONCLUSION Trachoma is found at low levels in these camps, but still at levels where intervention is needed. Disease elimination in conflict-related settings presents a unique challenge for the trachoma community, and may require an innovative approach. Understanding how best to undertake trachoma elimination interventions in these areas should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin K Macleod
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Kamal Hashim Binnawi
- National Program for Prevention of Blindness, Federal Ministry of Health, PO Box 303 Khartoum, Sudan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Al Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Balgesa Elkheir Elshafie
- National Program for Prevention of Blindness, Federal Ministry of Health, PO Box 303 Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Husam Eldin Sadig
- Faculty of Mathematical Sciences and Statistics, Al-Neelain University, Sudan
| | | | - Naomi Cocks
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Willis
- Task Force for Global Health, 330 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Brian Chu
- Task Force for Global Health, 330 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Curcio CL, Vanegas JH, Palacio MC, Corchuelo Ojeda J. Elderly and forced displacement in Colombia. Colomb Med (Cali) 2019; 50:52-66. [PMID: 31607763 PMCID: PMC6774583 DOI: 10.25100/cm.v50i2.4009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the experiences of older adults around forced displacement due to the Colombian armed conflict. Methods Interpretive-comprehensive study, with a hermeneutical approach; several types of sampling were carried out. The participants were 12 people aged over 60 years, who reported having being displaced and who participated in the SABE Colombia Survey. The data were encoded using the Atlas.ti software. A process of condensation of central analytical, support and emerging categories was made. Results The displacement generated by the armed conflict has been decisive in the current life conditions of the participants. They know that they are survivors of someone else's violence; there is dislocation, loss of territory, de-anchoring, lack of protection and insecurity. To the stigma of old age, it is added being displaced and being strangers in a place where they don't belong. They live the violent uprooting of their lands and the confusion of their identity; they found themselves in a foreign scene where they were the unusual and the strangers; from receiving threats, they passed to be labeled as 'threatening'. This forced displacement stems from violence, but also from fear, and it marks the trajectory of life for older people who experience a prolonged struggle for survival in often hostile environments, living "permanently" displaced. Conclusion When there is displacement, older people are not only shed of their land and their home, but also from their cosmos and their vital referents; in addition, it changes their life trajectory and their place in the world. Interventions should be designed based on specific particular and contextual analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen-Lucía Curcio
- Universidad de Caldas, Facultad de Ciencias para la Salud. Departamento Clínico, Grupo de Investigación en Gerontología y Geriatría. Manizales, Colombia
| | - José Hoover Vanegas
- Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Grupo de investigación Cuerpo-Movimiento. Manizales, Colombia
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Cadena-Camargo Y, Krumeich A, Duque-Páramo MC, Horstman K. 'We just been forced to do it': exploring victimization and agency among internally displaced young mothers in Bogotá. Confl Health 2019; 13:21. [PMID: 31171933 PMCID: PMC6547547 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-019-0205-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Armed conflict in Colombia has a history of 50 years that continues to this day. According to the Victims Record of Colombia, from 1985 to 2013 2.683.335 women have been victims of the armed conflict. Women have been described as the main victims of the armed conflict, especially in the Colombian cultural context that in some regions is still considered to be a ‘machista’ and patriarchal one. In contrast, some authors have explicitly stressed Colombian women’s agency instead of positioning them only as victims. Some of them are described as ‘survivors’ of the war, emphasizing their impressive resistance to the outcomes of war and forced displacement. In contrast to the background of these scholarly discussions, our study focused on how displaced women living in Bogotá themselves articulate their experiences of agency and victimization. This paper will therefore explore how women, in reconstructing their life stories, expressed the tussles between victimization and agency. Methods We used qualitative methods conducted within an ethnographic approach. Based on ten years of experience in the neighborhood and one year of fieldwork, we collected the life stories of twenty internally displaced mothers, and ran eight workshops with them. We analyzed the narratives with a specific focus on how women expressed victimization and agency in four important periods in their life that related to the process of displacement: when they left home, when they became pregnant, when they were forced to leave their towns, and when they arrived in Bogotá. Results Participants’ life stories showed how they struggled with agency during their lives. They were victims of abuse and violence during childhood and finally decided to leave their homes. They decided to have their babies despite the fact that they were abandoned by their partners and families, and after doubts about and attempts to have an abortion. Throughout the process of displacement the participants had been engaged in ambiguous relationships with armed groups. Finally they arrived in Bogotá and faced adverse circumstances but were looking for better opportunities for them and their children. Conclusion The analysis of how internally displaced women narrated their life stories showed us that the concepts that dominate scholarly debates about agency, victimization and survivorship do not do justice to the life stories of the participants in our study. These stories show that changes with a major impact were loaded with ambiguity and were characterized by helplessness, lack of control and agency simultaneously. The reconstruction of these life stories goes beyond the stereotype of displaced women as only ‘victims’, but points also to their agency and courageous decisions they made in contexts that were not controlled by them and where support was often lacking. Instead of label them, it is important to understand the complexity of the life experiences of IDW, in order to build policies that offer them aids as victims, but also build policies and intervention programs that empower them as agents in order to support them during resettlement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazmin Cadena-Camargo
- 1Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands.,2Faculty of Medicine, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Anja Krumeich
- 1Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Klasien Horstman
- 1Research school CAPHRI, Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Glass N, Perrin N, Marsh M, Clough A, Desgroppes A, Kaburu F, Ross B, Read-Hamilton S. Effectiveness of the Communities Care programme on change in social norms associated with gender-based violence (GBV) with residents in intervention compared with control districts in Mogadishu, Somalia. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e023819. [PMID: 30872541 PMCID: PMC6429733 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the effectiveness of the Communities Care programme (CCP) on change in harmful social norms associated with gender-based violence (GBV) and confidence in provision of services with residents in intervention compared with control district. We hypothesised that residents in the intervention district would report a decrease in support for harmful social norms and increase in confidence in services in comparison with control district. SETTING The study was conducted in Mogadishu, Somalia. PARTICIPANTS In the intervention district, 192 community members (50% women) completed baseline surveys with 163 (84.9%) retained at endline. In the control district, 195 community members (50% women) completed baseline surveys with 167 (85.6%) retained at endline. INTERVENTION CCP uses facilitated dialogues with community members to catalyse GBV prevention actions and provides training to diverse sectors to strengthen response services for GBV survivors. RESULTS Residents in the intervention district had significantly greater improvement in change in social norms: (1) response to sexual violence (b=-0.214, p=0.041); (2) protecting family honour (b=-0.558, p<0.001); and (3) husband's right to use violence (b=-0.309, p=0.003) compared with control district participants. The greatest change was seen in the norm of 'protecting family honour' with a Cohen's d effect size (ES) of 0.70, followed by the norm 'husband's right to use violence' (ES=0.38), and then the norm of 'response to sexual violence' (ES=0.28). Residents in intervention district had a significantly greater increase in confidence in provision of GBV services across diverse sectors than the control district (b=0.318, p<0.001) with an associated effect size of 0.67. There were no significant differences between residents in intervention and control districts on change in personal beliefs on the norms. CONCLUSION The evaluation showed the promise of CCP in changing harmful social norms associated with GBV and increasing confidence in provision of services in a complex humanitarian setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Glass
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nancy Perrin
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Amber Clough
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Amelie Desgroppes
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) Somalia, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Francesco Kaburu
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) Somalia, Nairobi, Kenya
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Perrin N, Marsh M, Clough A, Desgroppes A, Yope Phanuel C, Abdi A, Kaburu F, Heitmann S, Yamashina M, Ross B, Read-Hamilton S, Turner R, Heise L, Glass N. Social norms and beliefs about gender based violence scale: a measure for use with gender based violence prevention programs in low-resource and humanitarian settings. Confl Health 2019; 13:6. [PMID: 30899324 PMCID: PMC6408811 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-019-0189-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gender-based violence (GBV) primary prevention programs seek to facilitate change by addressing the underlying causes and drivers of violence against women and girls at a population level. Social norms are contextually and socially derived collective expectations of appropriate behaviors. Harmful social norms that sustain GBV include women’s sexual purity, protecting family honor over women’s safety, and men’s authority to discipline women and children. To evaluate the impact of GBV prevention programs, our team sought to develop a brief, valid, and reliable measure to examine change over time in harmful social norms and personal beliefs that maintain and tolerate sexual violence and other forms of GBV against women and girls in low resource and complex humanitarian settings. Methods The development and testing of the scale was conducted in two phases: 1) formative phase of qualitative inquiry to identify social norms and personal beliefs that sustain and justify GBV perpetration against women and girls; and 2) testing phase using quantitative methods to conduct a psychometric evaluation of the new scale in targeted areas of Somalia and South Sudan. Results The Social Norms and Beliefs about GBV Scale was administered to 602 randomly selected men (N = 301) and women (N = 301) community members age 15 years and older across Mogadishu, Somalia and Yei and Warrup, South Sudan. The psychometric properties of the 30-item scale are strong. Each of the three subscales, “Response to Sexual Violence,” “Protecting Family Honor,” and “Husband’s Right to Use Violence” within the two domains, personal beliefs and injunctive social norms, illustrate good factor structure, acceptable internal consistency, reliability, and are supported by the significance of the hypothesized group differences. Conclusions We encourage and recommend that researchers and practitioners apply the Social Norms and Beliefs about GBV Scale in different humanitarian and global LMIC settings and collect parallel data on a range of GBV outcomes. This will allow us to further validate the scale by triangulating its findings with GBV experiences and perpetration and assess its generalizability across diverse settings. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13031-019-0189-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Perrin
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | | | - Amber Clough
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Amelie Desgroppes
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) Somalia, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Ali Abdi
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) Somalia, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Francesco Kaburu
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) Somalia, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | - Rachael Turner
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Lori Heise
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA.,9Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Müller C, Tranchant JP. Domestic Violence and Humanitarian Crises: Evidence from the 2014 Israeli Military Operation in Gaza. Violence Against Women 2019; 25:1391-1416. [PMID: 30632456 DOI: 10.1177/1077801218818377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Using qualitative data from 21 group discussions and unique survey data from a representative cross-section of 439 women in the Gaza Strip, we investigate how the Israeli military operation "Protective Edge" in 2014 influenced domestic violence (DV), accounting for risk factors at different levels of the ecological model. We combine our survey data with secondary data on infrastructure destruction across Gaza's neighborhoods, and use propensity score matching techniques to address endogeneity concerns. Our results show that the military operation increased DV, and that this effect manifests itself at relatively low-levels of destruction. Our analysis suggests that the mechanisms are displacement, a lowered ability of married women to contribute to household decision-making, and reduced social support networks.
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A pilot study of a stepped-care brief intervention to help psychologically-distressed women displaced by conflict in Bogotá, Colombia. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2019; 6:e28. [PMID: 32076570 PMCID: PMC7003521 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2019.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colombia's 6.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been exposed to trauma, loss, and hardships. Common mental disorders (CMDs) are prevalent in this group, yet there are few evidence-based psychosocial interventions for this population. We assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a stepped-care intervention for women IDPs in Bogota, Colombia. METHODS Feasibility to recruit participants for an intervention trial, to screen for CMDs and displacement-related traumas, to refer high-risk cases to professional consultation, to implement evidence-based interpersonal counseling (IPC) for women with diagnosed CMDs, to retain participants in the intervention, and to conduct follow-up assessments was assessed. Assessment instruments were validated. The intervention was delivered by trained outreach personnel. Intervention acceptability was assessed by monitoring session attendance, dropout rates, and satisfaction. Potential efficacy was evaluated with pre- and post-intervention measures of CMDs. RESULTS We recruited 279 women IDPs into the intervention. On screening, 177 (63.4%) had symptom levels suggesting a CMD. Participants endorsed a wide range of displacement-related exposures. Most participants receiving IPC decreased their symptom levels at follow-up. Many participants did not complete the recommended number of IPC sessions; loss to follow-up was 30%. The performance of the outreach personnel improved after the initial intervention team was replaced with community members trained to deliver the intervention. The Bogotá health system was unable to reliably accommodate emergency psychiatric referrals. CONCLUSIONS The IPC intervention shows promise, but significant challenges remain for improving reach, adherence, and participant retention. We identified strategies and partnerships to redress some of the main study limitations.
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Lafta R, Cetorelli V, Burnham G. Living in Mosul during the time of ISIS and the military liberation: results from a 40-cluster household survey. Confl Health 2018; 12:31. [PMID: 30079099 PMCID: PMC6069716 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-018-0167-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In June 2014, an estimated 1500 fighters of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) seized control of Mosul, Iraq's second city. Although many residents fled, others stayed behind, enduring the restrictive civil and social policies of ISIS. In December 2016, the military activity, known as the liberation campaign, began in east Mosul, concluding in west Mosul in June 2017. METHODS To assess life in Mosul under ISIS, and the consequences of the military campaign to retake Mosul we conducted a 40 cluster-30 household survey in Mosul, starting in March 2017. All households included were present in Mosul throughout the entire time of ISIS control and military action. RESULTS In June 2014, 915 of 1139 school-age children (80.3%) had been in school, but only 28 (2.2%) attended at least some school after ISIS seized control. This represented a decision of families. Injuries to women resulting from intimate partner violence were reported in 415 (34.5%) households. In the surveyed households, 819 marriages had occurred; 688 (84.0%) among women. Of these women, 89 (12.9%) were aged 15 years and less, and 253 (49.7%) were aged under 18 at the time of marriage. With Mosul economically damaged by ISIS control and physically during the Iraqi military action, there was little employment at the time of the survey, and few persons were bringing cash into households. The liberation of Mosul in 2017 caused extensive damage to dwellings. Overall only a quarter of dwellings had not sustained some damage. In west Mosul, only 21.7% of houses had little or no damage from the conflict, with 98 (21.7%) households reporting their house had been destroyed, forcing its occupants to move. No houses had regular electricity and there was limited piped water. Inadequate fuel for cooking was reported by 996 (82.9%) households. CONCLUSION The physical, and social damage occurring during ISIS occupation of Mosul and during the subsequent military action (liberation) was substantial and its impact is unlikely to be erased soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Lafta
- Department of Community Medicine, Al Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - V. Cetorelli
- Demographic and Social Statistics Section, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - G. Burnham
- Department of International Health, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Wirtz AL, Perrin NA, Desgroppes A, Phipps V, Abdi AA, Ross B, Kaburu F, Kajue I, Kutto E, Taniguchi E, Glass N. Lifetime prevalence, correlates and health consequences of gender-based violence victimisation and perpetration among men and women in Somalia. BMJ Glob Health 2018; 3:e000773. [PMID: 30105094 PMCID: PMC6074632 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2018-000773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Humanitarian emergencies increase the risk of gender-based violence (GBV). We estimated the prevalence of GBV victimisation and perpetration among women and men in urban settings across Somalia, which has faced decades of war and natural disasters that have resulted in massive population displacements. Methods A population-based survey was conducted in 14 urban areas across Somalia between December 2014 and November 2015. Results A total of 2376 women and 2257 men participated in the survey. One in five men (22.2%, 95% CI 20.5 to 23.9) and one in seven (15.5%; 95% CI 14.1 to 17.0) women reported physical or sexual violence victimisation during childhood. Among women, 35.6% (95% CI 33.4 to 37.9) reported adult lifetime experiences of physical or sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) and 16.5% (95% CI 15.1 to 18.1) reported adult lifetime experience of physical or sexual non-partner violence (NPV). Almost one-third of men (31.2%; 95% CI 29.4 to 33.1) reported victimisation as an adult, the majority of which was physical violence. Twenty-two per cent (21.7%; 95% CI 19.5 to 24.1) of men reported lifetime sexual or physical IPV perpetration and 8.1% (95% CI 7.1 to 9.3) reported lifetime sexual or physical NPV perpetration. Minority clan membership, displacement, exposure to parental violence and violence during childhood were common correlates of IPV and NPV victimisation and perpetration among women and men. Victimisation and perpetration were also strongly associated with recent depression and experiences of miscarriage or stillbirth. Conclusion GBV is prevalent and spans all regions of Somalia. Programmes that support nurturing environments for children and provide health and psychosocial support for women and men are critical to prevent and respond to GBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nancy A Perrin
- Community Public Health Nursing, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Verena Phipps
- The World Bank, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Ali A Abdi
- Community Public Health Nursing, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brendan Ross
- United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (Unicef), Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Francesco Kaburu
- Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isatu Kajue
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), New York City, New York, USA
| | - Ezekiel Kutto
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), New York City, New York, USA
| | - Eri Taniguchi
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), New York City, New York, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Community Public Health Nursing, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Al-Natour A, Al-Ostaz SM, Morris EJ. Marital Violence During War Conflict: The Lived Experience of Syrian Refugee Women. J Transcult Nurs 2018; 30:32-38. [PMID: 29947600 DOI: 10.1177/1043659618783842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Marital violence increases during times of war. This study aims to describe the lived experience of marital violence toward Syrian refugee women during the current war in Syria. DESIGN A descriptive phenomenological research methodology was used to conduct semistructured interviews with 16 purposively selected Syrian refugee women residing in displacement centers in Jordan. Colaizzi's steps of data analysis were used. RESULTS Four themes identified were identified: (1) Loss, insecurity, and suffering; (2) Shame and humiliation; (3) Justifying and enduring marital violence; and (4) Ways of coping with marital violence. CONCLUSION The Syrian War conflict changed women's lifeway and created a context for marital violence. Study findings suggests addressing marital violence during wartime and allocating resources to provide care and support of victims of violence in the displaced countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlam Al-Natour
- 1 Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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