When the conflict ends, the violence often continues inside the house. This is a reality in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), African countries that experienced genocide, war and conflict in the 20th century. When conflict comes to an end, men have to deal with trauma, displacement, the loss of autonomy and economic capacity, and often, they become more violent towards their wives and children.
One of Promundo's contributions in this regard was the creation of the “Living Peace” groups implemented in 2013 in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo with local partners. This program, supported by the World Bank's LOGiCA Fund, aims to reduce violence in post-conflict communities by helping men deal with the traumas of war and rebuild their identities in ways that transform violent gender norms and patterns. The aim is also to involve men in supporting women who have suffered trauma, as well as sexual violence in conflict situations: 22% of women interviewed in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (according to IMAGES research, carried out in 2012). Many of these women are thrown out of their homes due to the culture that a man must reject his wife if she is raped.
“Living Peace” groups carry out educational exercises with men, and often their partners, to help them deal with the effects of trauma, and to develop positive coping strategies. Therapeutic and psycho-educational tools bring the community together in a process of social restoration.
The results, so far, are highlighted by reports collected in the field. A man from Luvungi, in the DRC's South Kivu province, reflects on how his relationship improved after participating in the program: “I was like a lion, drinking and beating my wife, and I didn't take care of my family. I regret it and asked her to forgive all the bad things I did. Now let’s talk more, share and live in peace.”
Learn more about “Living Peace” groups here .
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