Survivor-Centered and Trauma-Informed Approaches to Policies and Tools in the International Development Sector

Abstract

In this groundbreaking Master's thesis, Rameesha Qazi explores the critical realm of survivor care policies and toolkits within the NGO space, driven by her own experience of sexual violence during my work abroad. Rooted in a survivor-centered and trauma-informed framework, my analysis encompasses an evaluation of policies from organizations and essential toolkits, revealing striking gaps in addressing systemic barriers, recognizing trauma's nuanced impact, and supporting diverse coping strategies. A unique contribution to the field and in recognizing contextual variations in survivor needs, I introduce a country guide as a practical tool for NGOs to enhance their survivor care policies, providing a roadmap for how to address gaps in support.

Furthermore, extending the focus beyond policies, I scrutinize toolkits from prominent organizations and propose recommendations, emphasizing the crucial need to engage survivors, provide comprehensive support, and amplify survivor voices.

The thesis not only underscores the urgency for trauma-informed, survivor-led approaches but also challenges prevailing norms in the development sector. It aims to reshape the discourse around sexual exploitation and abuse, advocating for tangible, sustainable change in policies and toolkits to ensure the safety, support, and empowerment of survivors within the NGO space. This research stands as a testament to the imperative role of survivor voices in shaping effective, adequate, and sustainable solutions for combating sexual violence within the development sector.