Human rights group highlights novel research methods that avoid retraumatizing survivors

Standard research methods, such as interviewing survivors, may retraumatize them or expose them to additional stigma and discrimination. Similarly, efforts to monitor and evaluate programs involving survivors run the risk of causing more distress.

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is trying to address that challenge. Our Program on Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones provides capacity development for medical, legal, and law enforcement professionals who support survivors of sexual violence as they seek justice. Our team designs research and monitoring and evaluation mechanisms that generate data, while ensuring the safety and security of the survivors.