Peer-reviewed article
Programmatic norms change to eliminate violence against children: Insights for practitioners and researchers from a UNICEF global mapping study
Tara Patricia Cookson, Lorena Fuentes, Abha Saxena, Shreyasi Jha ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This UNICEF mapping study examines programmes designed to change gender norms that contribute to violence against children aged 0-19. The research synthesises lessons learned from UNICEF's existing work across multiple regions to identify practical insights for preventing violence against children through norm change efforts. The study emphasises the importance of understanding local contexts when designing gender norm-change interventions at scale. The findings are intended to inform UNICEF's coordinated strategy on positive gender socialisation and benefit other organisations working on similar issues.
Key points
- UNICEF conducted a global mapping of its existing programmes focused on changing discriminatory gender norms to prevent violence against children
- The mapping accounted for differences across and within regions to develop context-sensitive institutional approaches
- Changing deeply rooted gender norms requires sensitivity to local context, which presents challenges for mid- to large-sized organisations
- The study draws practical lessons relevant to other organisations and research programmes working on norm change to eliminate violence against children
- The mapping forms the foundation for UNICEF's coordinated strategy and programme of work around positive gender socialisation
Limitations
This is a descriptive mapping study that synthesises existing UNICEF programmes rather than an evaluation of intervention effectiveness. The document does not provide specific outcome data or evidence of impact on violence reduction.
Abstract
Interest in gender norms is rising within the field of global health and among its funders. With more resources available for norms change work, international institutions seek to develop thoughtful strategic and programmatic responses to a variety of issues, including violence against children. Yet changing deeply rooted gender norms requires sensitivity to local context. This can present a challenge for mid- to large sized organisations, as well as funders, who are typically required to develop strategies that encompass multiple contexts. This paper presents practical lessons learned from a mapping study of UNICEF's existing work to change discriminatory gender norms. As the world's leading children's rights organisation, preventing violence against children (0-9) and adolescents (ages 10-19) is a key component of UNICEF's work. This mapping formed the foundation of the institution's efforts to build out a coordinated strategy and programme of work around 'positive gender socialisation.' The mapping was unique in that it accounted for differences across and within regions and sought to develop an institutional programme of work based on local experience and existing priorities. The lessons learned are relevant to other organisations and practice-oriented research programmes embarking on work to change norms that lead to violence against children.