Key Learning Points
This unit has introduced the concept of a theory of change, explaining its importance both for informing policy decisions, and as an aid to designing practical interventions that draw on evidence.
The theory of change introduced in this unit, illustrated below, was produced as an output from the research conducted in the ‘Women, Work and Violence’ study conducted in Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan, so is of particular relevance in those contexts, but can also be considered with any necessary adaptation for other contexts.
The project explored how women’s employment can impact on violence against women, in addition to other factors, so sought to develop a ‘Theory of Change’ to reflect on this specific issue. It should be used alongside other existing Theories of Change that did not have this focus.
The team also wanted to develop something engaging on a personal and professional level and hence the Theory of Change is presented as a video rather than simply in the more typical format of a table or diagram. It can be seen as a research uptake product, where the team has sought to synthesise concisely and visually, some of the key findings from the study, and structure them into a form that can be useful to decision makers.
Each of the key components needs to be developed in detail at the policy design or project design level, but what we see from this, is that local women’s organisations and supportive peer netwo rks that make use of social mobilisers, can provide women with greater awareness of violence and through their work they can gain access to income which increases ability to be independent and have self confidence.
With government support through legislation and access to justice, women can be further empowered. Membership of trade unions, and safe working environments with codes of conduct that are put into practice and followed. are also key components for a work environment where women’s experience of violence can be reduced.
Further Reading, Useful Weblinks and Resources
Research to Action produce the following reading list that is regularly updated, which covers academic research and programmatic findings about ending violence against women and girls:
Communicating research about ending violence against women and girls
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