Evaluate to what extent the following institutions have supported communities affected by gender based violence? Use example for each answer.....governments,community NGOs and religious organization.
Governments:
Governments have made efforts to support communities affected by gender-based violence by implementing policies and programs. For example, the United Kingdom (UK) government implemented the Domestic Abuse Bill which seeks to create a better justice system for survivors of domestic abuse and improve support for victims. The bill aimed to provide more protection to those who are vulnerable to violence and abuse and to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. The bill also proposed a new legal definition of domestic abuse that includes economic abuse and controlling behavior as well.
Community NGOs:
Community NGOs have shown a great deal of dedication and support for communities affected by gender-based violence. NGOs provide various services and programs such as crisis hotlines, counseling services, and emergency shelter. One example is the California-based non-profit organization A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) that provides an art-based healing program for survivors of domestic violence. This program uses art as a therapeutic tool to help survivors process their trauma and heal from the effects of abuse. This organization empowers women by giving them a voice and creating a platform for them to share their stories, heal, and inspire positive change in their communities.
Religious Organizations:
Religious organizations have also made strides to support communities affected by gender-based violence. For example, Faith Trust Institute is a Seattle-based religious organization that focuses on ending sexual and domestic violence within religious communities. This organization provides training, resources, and consultation services for religious leaders, faith communities, and organizations. In addition, they help institutions establish protocols for identifying and responding to domestic violence and abuse, providing support for survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable. This organization's work is valuable and significant as it addresses the cultural and religious norms that perpetuate gender-based violence in many societies, even if it does not specifically work with those most affected.
To evaluate the extent to which the following institutions have supported communities affected by gender-based violence (GBV) (governments, community NGOs, and religious organizations), we will consider their actions and provide examples for each institution:
1. Governments:
- Many governments have established laws and policies to address GBV, including legislation against domestic violence, sexual harassment, and . For example, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in the United States provides funding for programs and services to support survivors of violence.
- Governments often allocate budget resources to support community organizations and shelters that provide assistance to GBV survivors.
- They may also establish helplines or hotlines to provide immediate support and counseling. For instance, the United Kingdom's National Domestic Violence Helpline offers support, advice, and access to safe accommodation for those experiencing abuse.
2. Community NGOs:
- NGOs dedicated to addressing GBV have played a significant role in supporting affected communities. They raise awareness, provide counseling services, and advocate for policy changes.
- Many NGOs offer safe spaces and shelters to survivors of GBV, providing them with accommodation, medical care, legal aid, and psychosocial support. For example, the "Shakti Shalini" NGO in India provides support to women affected by domestic violence and also offers legal aid and counseling services.
- NGOs often facilitate community outreach programs to educate people about GBV prevention, consent, gender equality, and other related topics. They may conduct workshops and training sessions for various stakeholders.
3. Religious Organizations:
- Religious organizations can contribute to supporting communities affected by GBV by promoting values of respect, compassion, and non-violence.
- Many religious organizations have established helplines or counseling services for individuals experiencing GBV and their families. For instance, the "Project Sakinah" initiative by Islamic organizations in Malaysia supports survivors of domestic violence by providing counseling services and resources.
- Religious organizations can also play a role in changing societal norms and attitudes towards GBV through sermons, teachings, and education within their communities.
It is essential to note that the extent of support varies across countries, regions, and individual organizations within these institutions. Evaluating the effectiveness of their efforts requires taking into account specific examples and considering the broader context in which they operate.