In Kosovo, interventions designed to assist victims of sexual violence have often been met with resistance because of the harsh stigma surrounding rape. While rape as a weapon of war has been documented in the ethnic conflict in Kosovo, data on the incidence, attitudes, and knowledge about gender-based violence within the ethnic-Albanian community is virtually non-existent. International Medical Corps and a local organization, Kosovo Action Together, conducted a study to examine young people's knowledge, attitudes, and practices with regards to the existence of gender-based violence in their community. The study, which included a KAP survey and semi-structured discussion groups, took place in five towns in the UN governed province of Kosovo, one year after the NATO air strikes. For the purposes of this study, gender-based violence was defined as "oppressive acts derived from unequal power relationships between men and women". The results of the study demonstrated widely differing views in the definition of violence among the 272 participants, ages 15-24. Cultural beliefs that contribute to the denial of human rights to women were also identified. Despite existing traditional beliefs, a significant majority of the population is highly motivated to expose the issue of violence in their society. Findings suggest that involving young people in violence awareness and prevention campaigns may provide a platform for change in a once-silent society.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Describe a range of cultural beliefs about gender-based violence that contribute to the denial of women's human rights in Kosovo. 2. Identify community-based gender-based violence prevention strategies implemented among youth in Kosovo. 3. Discuss strategies for changing attitudes among youth regarding gender-based violence.
Keywords: Youth, Violence Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Abstract withdrawn on 9/26 per Jennifer Kim's request.
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.