Earlier we introduced the ethnographic web model as the analytical framework for the study, and explained how this brings together social ecology, intersectional and gender-violence spectrum theory. We looked at how the study was designed and some of the important considerations and issues arising relating to the study implementation
Now we are going to review some of the findings, first with some reflections on the study as a whole. The second part of the country case studies will then be introduced, where you can study the findings for the country of your choice.
We will also think about ‘uptake’, and by working through an activity we will consider what we do with the knowledge and insights gained from the study, and how this can be used effectively to strengthen and improve policy and practice.
Finally, we will look at country findings related to the case study, and work on an activity related to uptake.
Features of the Study
The project was undertaken over an 18 month period ending in March 2017. It was conducted in Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan, and the context in each of these three countries had some similarities and major differences.
We identified as part of this study women from different economic backgrounds, who are formally employed or working in the informal sector.
We also studied programme activities in each of the countries, aimed at understanding their strategies and effectiveness in addressing violence experienced by women who are working.
The study objective and the main questions explored were introduced earlier in theme 2.
Cross Country findings
We will explore findings from the specific country studies in the case studies that follow.
From the study as a whole, some findings stood out as relevant to all three country contexts. These are as follows:
EXPERIENCES OF TRAVELING TO AND FROM WORK:
Women in all countries reported feeling physically unsafe while traveling to and from work. This impacts directly on their productivity.
HONOUR AND SHAME:
In all three countries women, even when they have personal economic resources, are likely to remain in violent domestic environments because of social constraints linked to honour and shame.
WORK BASED HARASSMENT:
Gendered harassment at work is high across all job types and has dire impacts on concentration and productivity.
MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING:
Mental health is negatively affected by increased levels of violence related to work (having to get to work, and harassment whilst there). However, it is also positively affected by women reporting that they feel more confident and independent as a result of earning an income. Women in each country speak of having decision-making powers that they link directly to income.
BACKLASH AT HOME AS A RESULT OF ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT:
Women who earn an income are more likely to experience intimate partner violence than economically inactive women.
ENGAGEMENT WITH WOMEN’S ORGANISATIONS:
Engagement with women’s organisations is the single most important factor driving women’s willingness to challenge violent behaviour.
>> Key reading: For further insights into the overall findings see the Final Synthesis Report from the project.
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