Findings from research done in 10 villages would be used to tailor-make a Fa’a Samoa way to counter violence in homes.

The Evidence for Violence Prevention in the Extreme (EVE) Research study, launched in March 2020, reached a significant milestone with the dissemination of its preliminary research findings to the local researchers this week.

The project, a collaboration between University College London (UCL), the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG), the National University of Samoa, and the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, aims to develop an indigenous approach to combatting violence against women, rooted in the Fa’a Samoa.

Led by Principal Researcher Dr. Jenevieve Mannell, the research study engaged 30 village representatives from the 10 pilot villages involved since inception.

These representatives, selected from SVSG’s network were integral to the research process, receiving training in interview skills and conducting village-wide interviews. Through these efforts, the project developed a comprehensive theory of change and identified both risk and protective factors for violence through surveys conducted in nine villages.

Dr. Mannell expressed her gratitude to SVSG and the village representatives, emphasising their indispensable support throughout the four-year endeavour.

"Without their dedication and collaboration, this project would not have been possible," she said.

The findings highlighted the pivotal role of families, village, and church leaders in addressing violence against women and girls.

The research yielded an intervention strategy tailored to Samoa's unique socio-cultural landscape, paving the way for potential nationwide implementation to enhance the safety and well-being of women across the country.

Reflecting on the project’s outcomes, Dr. Mannell noted, "Our focus now shifts to evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions across different villages. It's important to understand how well they have been adapted and received, and their impact on local communities."

The research findings will be presented to relevant stakeholders in an event in August 2024, gauging support from the government, development partners, and communities for relevant action.

“Moving forward, the Samoa Victim Support Group through the EVE Research study remains committed to its mission of fostering safer communities through collaborative research and culturally informed interventions,” said Siliniu Lina Chang, SVSG President.