Innovative Political Strategies in the European Union for Combating Sexual Violence
Faculty Mentor
Gregory Barton
Major/Area of Research
Global Studies
Description
INTRODUCTION: Sexual violence is a growing global issue requiring innovative solutions for effective prevention and response. This research investigates innovative political strategies across the European Union to address sexual violence at a local level, with a focus on their potential application elsewhere.
METHOD: The data was gathered through interviews and surveys with individuals from European organizations involved in relevant projects, which the author connected with through the Innovation in Politics Awards. In collaboration with The Innovation in Politics Institute based in Vienna, Austria, and guided by Critical Theory and Radical Feminist Theory, which both highlight marginalized voices affected by sexual violence, the study utilized participant observation, interviews, and surveys. Care was taken to ensure that research participants were not from vulnerable populations, and ethical guidelines were followed to protect individuals from harm while ensuring that their voices were heard respectfully and responsibly. A 90-day internship in Vienna provided direct insight into EU stakeholders' work, while interviews and surveys gathered perspectives on local impacts and adaptability. Primary source analysis, including reports, webinars, and forums, revealed key patterns and gaps, which were analyzed through documentary research. This analysis contributed to the academic discussion on effective global strategies by drawing on secondary sources to help situate and make sense of the findings in the case study.
RESULTS: The main findings affirm that local interventions and person-centered care are key in addressing gender-based violence. Success depends on adapting strategies to local needs and cultural contexts.
CONCLUSION: This research concludes that local strategies can contribute to global solutions for sexual violence, aligning with human rights standards of dignity, equality, and justice.
Innovative Political Strategies in the European Union for Combating Sexual Violence
INTRODUCTION: Sexual violence is a growing global issue requiring innovative solutions for effective prevention and response. This research investigates innovative political strategies across the European Union to address sexual violence at a local level, with a focus on their potential application elsewhere.
METHOD: The data was gathered through interviews and surveys with individuals from European organizations involved in relevant projects, which the author connected with through the Innovation in Politics Awards. In collaboration with The Innovation in Politics Institute based in Vienna, Austria, and guided by Critical Theory and Radical Feminist Theory, which both highlight marginalized voices affected by sexual violence, the study utilized participant observation, interviews, and surveys. Care was taken to ensure that research participants were not from vulnerable populations, and ethical guidelines were followed to protect individuals from harm while ensuring that their voices were heard respectfully and responsibly. A 90-day internship in Vienna provided direct insight into EU stakeholders' work, while interviews and surveys gathered perspectives on local impacts and adaptability. Primary source analysis, including reports, webinars, and forums, revealed key patterns and gaps, which were analyzed through documentary research. This analysis contributed to the academic discussion on effective global strategies by drawing on secondary sources to help situate and make sense of the findings in the case study.
RESULTS: The main findings affirm that local interventions and person-centered care are key in addressing gender-based violence. Success depends on adapting strategies to local needs and cultural contexts.
CONCLUSION: This research concludes that local strategies can contribute to global solutions for sexual violence, aligning with human rights standards of dignity, equality, and justice.