Overview

This is an international, comparative survey which interviews random samples of women about their experiences with male violence. The authors form a management team for the International Violence Against Women Survey (IVAWS). The objective of IVAWS is to investigate the level and nature of victimization of women in a number of countries worldwide, to assess the similarities and differences in women's experiences, to provide statistical data for the development of criminal justice and social responses to victims, and to test theories. These data are vital to researchers, advocates, and policymakers working to assist survivors and eliminate gender-based violence worldwide. In addition, the authors offer immediate and long-range proposals, from promoting gender equality and improving service delivery to victims to improved prevention, monitoring and evaluation.