Community conversations change perceptions about domestic violence

Monday, March 29, 2010

Cambodia: There is a workshops on Community conversations change perceptions about domestic violence on Tuesday, 30 March 2010; 8:00am–17:00pm, Imperial Hotel, Ball Room I & II Domestic violence remains a major issue in Cambodia with women being the main victims. The problem is compounded by the fact that domestic violence is typically regarded as an internal family issue that others should not intervene in. Encouraging community members to talk openly about domestic violence, however, can help raise awareness of the issue, and change perceptions in relation to it, thereby contributing to a reduction of the incidence of domestic violence.
 
In response to this, in 2007, UNDP started “community conversations on domestic violence” in 22 villages in Kampong Chhnang province. Village facilitators were trained to lead discussions on domestic violence in their own villages, with the aim of encouraging behavioral change towards domestic violence through awareness raising and education. By 2009, the initiative had expanded to a total of 89 villages in five provinces, namely, Kampong Chhang, Kampong Speu, Siem Reap, Mondolkiri, and Ratanakiri. In total, 890 conversations were held.
 
The initiative was part of a broader UNDP legal reform project called Access to Justice, through which activities such as these were implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Justice, and NGOs.
 
A mid-term survey in the five provinces found that there is an increased awareness of domestic violence in the villages that participated in community conversations when compared to baseline surveys in the same areas.
 
At this one-day workshop, speakers will present outcomes and analysis of the project. About 130 people, including village facilitators and district governors, are expected to participate in this event.