COFEM SVRI 2017 Paper & Video Series

Paper & Video 3

Finding the balance between scientific and social change goals, approaches and methods

This paper examines the tensions between feminist and technocratic approaches to addressing VAWG in humanitarian settings. We contend that the application of a technocratic approach within the humanitarian system – one that is premised on the application of technical standards and methods, often by outside experts, and an overreliance on generating ‘scientific’ knowledge – cannot by itself provide solutions to VAWG. Rather, feminist analysis and approaches must be the foundation on which VAWG prevention and response efforts are built.