In 2006, the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) facilitated the development of a broad research agenda on sexual violence to strengthen our understanding of the field, promote research that is priority driven and that provides practical and empirical basis for interventions.
To strengthen our understanding of rape and sexual violence, and ultimately prevent and address it, we need to ensure that the research undertaken is both priority driven and carried out in such a way that it provides a sound practical and empirical basis for interventions/programmes, policy and advocacy on sexual violence.
To drive this process forward, the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) facilitated the development of a broad research agenda for sexual violence in 2006.
Methodology
The agenda was informed by published literature on sexual violence; a series of consultative, inclusive process among violence against women and violence against children stakeholders around the world, as well as recommendations arising from the World Report on Violence and Health.
Priority was given to research that will facilitate response to and prevention of sexual violence; address issues that particularly impact lower and middle income countries; provide a sound practical and empirical foundation for interventions, policy and advocacy programmes within countries, and at regional and global levels
Key Findings of the Sexual Violence Research Agenda
The agenda identified the following six priority areas for research on sexual violence.
Priority Area 1: Nature, prevalence, social context and risk factors associated with sexual Violence
Priority Area 2: Sexual violence prevention
Priority Area 3: Appropriateness and effectiveness of sexual violence services
Priority Area 4: Childhood sexual abuse
Priority Area 5: Sexual violence in conflict and emergency settings
Priority Area 6: HIV and sexual violence
Implications for the Field
The aim of the sexual violence research agenda is to focus attention on and funnel limited resources to redress knowledge gaps. The research agenda has served to:
- Assist researchers to identify study questions within the areas of highest need
- Assist donors in shaping funding programmes that are based on research gaps and priorities, and promote best use of limited research resources
- Inform the development of responsive and effective sexual violence services, prevention and advocacy programmes.
