We examined 42 programs targeting men who use violence across the Indo-Pacific region

Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue, with a crisis declared by the prime minister in 2024. A recent study assessed 42 programs aimed at men who use violence across 14 Indo-Pacific countries, including Australia, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The findings indicate a need for innovative approaches to effectively reduce this pressing societal problem.

Understanding the Landscape of Domestic Violence Interventions

In a comprehensive review, researchers screened over 20,000 articles to map out existing interventions for men using violence. The study revealed that nearly half of the 42 programs evaluated were based in Australia. However, this prevalence reflects the biases in academic publishing rather than a true representation of global efforts.

Most interventions were more creative than traditional men's behavior change programs. Approximately 75% of the programs implemented new strategies beyond the classic group therapy model, which typically involves men meeting in groups over several weeks. The majority of these innovative approaches were found outside Australia and New Zealand, focusing on community engagement.

Innovative Community-Based Approaches

Community-based interventions were prevalent, emphasizing the importance of engaging not just the men involved but their entire communities. One notable example is HERrespect, a program in Bangladesh's garment factories that utilized "edu-tainment" through skits and awareness campaigns. Although the program faced challenges due to short funding periods, it highlighted the potential for workplace-based initiatives to reach men who might not otherwise seek help.

Another program, Parivartan, targeted young male cricket athletes and their coaches in India. By focusing on the sporting community, this initiative aimed to foster positive attitudes towards women and violence prevention. While promising, the long-term effectiveness of these programs remains uncertain due to insufficient evaluation.

The Need for Inclusive Solutions

Despite the diversity of programs, marginalized communities have been largely overlooked. Only two out of the 42 programs considered diverse populations, such as displaced Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. Indigenous peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, migrants, and those with disabilities were notably absent from the design of these interventions.

To effectively combat domestic violence, long-term investments in various approaches are essential. Programs must be co-designed with the communities they serve, rather than merely adapting Western models. For instance, the Rainbow Door helpline in Australia provides critical support for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating the domestic violence system, showcasing the need for tailored solutions.