COFEM SVRI 2017 Paper & Video Series

Paper & Video 3

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

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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.