From the SVRI Forum held in 2024 it was shared that there is a climate – violence nexus. Climate change increases the risk of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in countries like Lesotho, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Namibia. In Lesotho in particular there is 11% additional HIV risk for teenage girls post drought. When crops fail due to drought families face economic stress that can trigger violence. When communities are displaced protection systems break down. When food become scarce survival strategies often put women and girls at increased risk. Climate emergence has become more frequent and severe, and prevention must adapt to climate realities.
Sustained and effective IPV Programs are challenged by one year Project cycle-based funds which do not come with relationships or social norms change and behaviour change Programs which lead to reduction cannot be effective addressed in isolation. Programs need to be integrated.
The impact of SASA Faith Based norms change methodology was discussed as a sustainable way to prevent GBV. It is a methodology which mobilises faith communities and inspires everyone to live the faith-based values of justices, peace and dignity in their intimate partner relationships. SASA Faith aims to change knowledge, attitudes, skills and behaviours through four strategic phases in a sequence.
Through SASA Faith Religious Leaders became vocal against GBV and refrained from harmful norms and practices.
To know more about the SASA Faith Methodology for GBV prevention follow this link: