Gender-Based Violence Researchers and Activists: Lessons From a Global Family

Working as activists in domestic and sexual violence spaces can sometimes feel like you are on a never-ending wheel. Until, you arrive at forums like SVRI (Sexual Violence Research Initiative) and see hundreds of colleagues from over 90 countries who are just like you. They have the same inspiration, strength and faith we all need to end domestic and sexual violence.

“Prevention efforts will transform people from bystanders to activists and create a world where young people recognize gender-based violence and are willing to say NO to it.”

At the SVRI Forum, we were reassured that to continue this fight, we need overarching global services that provide victims with the immediate support they need. We also need strong legal systems that ensure that domestic and sexual violence are treated as crimes, but most importantly, we need to focus on the future. Prevention efforts will transform people from bystanders to activists and create a world where young people recognize gender-based violence and are willing to say NO to it.

There is still a substantial north-south divide; however, innovation is starting to come from all parts of the world. Lessons learned, partnerships, research and even program failures are emerging from all corners and whilst there is still a long way to walk, we see more research being funded and carried out locally.

Today, the NO MORE family wants to assure our chapters, allied organizations, activists, and followers that we are not alone. The passion, commitment, and resilience we were able to experience from a global family of activists convening at the SVRI Forum give us faith that we are on the right path to finding solutions. Indeed, it may not always be the smoothest of roads, but one that is gathering the vital knowledge it needs to create meaningful change.

Our mantra has been proven at SVRI – only together can we end domestic and sexual violence.