The primary objective of this research project is to improve care provided to women who are victims of family violence or rape by offering them integrated services within the within the justice system in Guatemala. The paper will show the importance of involving the judiciary system in strategies aiming to combat family violence. The project was conducted in collaboration with the Women’s Advocacy Commission (WAC) of the Human Rights General Attorney Office (HRGA). As a first stage of this project, a sample of 25 HRGA workers was selected to conduct a preliminary survey. The study demonstrated that 70% of workers interviewed did not know basic aspects of family planning or emergency contraception. Eighty four percent (84%) of people interviewed failed to recognize basic aspects of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Based on survey results, personnel from HRGA were trained in two workshops. In each workshop, 25 HRGA workers participated, making a total of 50 participants. Participants included educators, regional coordinators of the WAC, and psychology students. This paper will present results and impact of these workshops. The paper will also submit results of a survey on domestic violence and emergency contraception that was conducted among personnel from the justice system in Guatemala, including judges, psychologists, forensic doctors, and police men. Based on survey results, 12 workshops have been conducted with the judicial system staff on emergency contraception and the legal procedure for women victims of violence or rape.
Learning Objectives: Identify the role of the judiciary system to reduce family violence Discuss the relationship between the judiciary and the health systems to reduce family violence
Keywords: Family Violence, Jails and Prisons
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.