Building evidence — gathering data and research — is the foundation for real change in programs and policies to combat violence against women and children. Evidence informs policies, drives program decisions, and shapes interventions that can save lives.
But how we build that evidence is equally essential. So what are the key factors in building powerful, ethical evidence that can drive positive change in violence against women, or VAW, and violence against children, or VAC, policies and programs?
The process of building evidence is not neutral. The way research is conducted, the methodologies employed, and the ethical considerations taken into account all shape the quality of the evidence produced.
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About the author
Elizabeth Dartnall
Elizabeth Dartnall is the executive director of the Sexual Violence Research Initiative. With over 25 years of expertise in health systems, mental health, and addressing violence against women and violence against children, Liz is an experienced global health specialist. Her career encompasses roles in both government and research in a range of countries across the world. Liz possesses a profound grasp of the policymaking process and the pivotal role of research in shaping policy and practice. Since 2006, she has overseen the Sexual Violence Research Initiative and successfully transitioned it into an independent NGO with the backing of multiple partners. Committed to feminist, ethical, and equitable approaches, Liz continues to lead research and policy initiatives that play a key role in building a violence-free world for women and children.
