Screening for Gender-based violence has become a topic of debate in humanitarian programming over the past few years as research has largely been limited to studies in developed countries. To address this, IRC has worked with Johns Hopkins University since 2011 on the piloting, implementation and evaluation of the ASIST-GBV, a GBV screening tool developed by JHU specifically for use among women and older adolescent girls in humanitarian settings. Findings from the evaluation indicate that, with the appropriate measures taken and prerequisites met, GBV screening by health providers has the potential to 1) create a confidential environment where survivors can speak openly about their experiences with GBV, 2) ensure competent care and referrals based on individual needs and wishes of survivors, and 3) increase community awareness about GBV issues, thereby reducing stigma and improving attitudes.
GBV screening remains a controversial intervention in spite of research supporting the activity. Please reach out to your technical advisor to discuss further.
GBV Screening Implementation Guide
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Universal Screening and Referral Protocol for Gender-Based Violence with Women Seeking Care in Health Clinics in Dadaab Refugee Camps in Kenya
Research Brief