Domestic violence is a global issue. According to the United Nations, 35% of women worldwide have endured physical and/or sexual partner violence. That percentage includes non-partner sexual violence. In the United States (according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline), over 12 million women and men are victims of intimate partner violence. Studies also show that homicides committed by an intimate partner are on the rise.
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How is domestic violence defined exactly? It includes physical and sexual violence and intimidation, but any pattern of behavior that maintains control fits in the definition: Emotional abuse, threats, neglect, and withholding finances are forms of domestic violence. According to studies, there’s a link between intimate-partner domestic violence and child abuse. People who abuse their partners are more likely to abuse or neglect their children, as well. There are conferences around the world educating people on identifying and addressing domestic violence. Here are five examples:
The Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence Conference
Where: Kentucky, USA | When: Unknown (last held December 2019)
In partnership with the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs, the Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence (KCADV) holds a conference each year. Hundreds of service providers, social workers, lawyers, medical professionals, and others attend the 3-day conference. Topics include ethics and confidentiality, evaluating programs, and collecting data.
KCADV is responsible for administering $13 million in funds to 15 member programs. The organization also runs a certification program for DV program staff as well as an Economic Empowerment Program for survivors. KCADV’s goals include addressing the causes of domestic violence, making sure survivors are safe, and holding abusers accountable.
Stop Domestic Violence Conference
Where: Queensland, Australia | When: December 2020
The Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association hosts the STOP Domestic Violence Conference. This annual conference brings together professionals committed to addressing and ending domestic and family violence. The theme for 2020 is “Multi-Sectoral Collaboration: Unifying Our Mission.” During the conference, new communication methods and innovative collaborations between support and service agencies will be explored. The latest research and theories on domestic violence will be also be presented. The conference takes place on December 2-4, 2020.
The Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association is a non-government nonprofit. It provides information and resources surrounding mental health. They host several conferences throughout the year in addition to STOP Domestic Violence, including conferences about addiction and workplace mental health.
The Canadian Domestic Violence Conference
Where: Halifax, Nova Scotia | When: March 2020
This conference, which is held every two years, focuses on grassroots initiatives addressing domestic violence. Participating organizations include women’s shelters, men’s treatment programs, children protection workers, clergy, and others. The goal of the conference, called CDVC6 this year, is to strengthen those responding to domestic violence. How to have conversations with those in domestic violence situations is a major goal.
This year, the CDVC6 will explore community initiatives on preventing domestic violence in the first place. Considering issues like racism, ableism, poverty, and homophobia will be a focus. The conference will take place March 3-7, 2020. Because of demand, the registration for this year is closed. There is a waiting list in case spots open due to withdrawal.
The National Health Conference on Health and Domestic Violence
Where: California, USA | When: 2021 (likely)
Hosted by the National Health Resource Center on Domestic Violence, this conference takes place every two years. It examines the latest research and methods that advance how the healthcare system responds to domestic violence. Over 1,000 participants attended the 2017 conference. Speakers discuss issues like gender-based violence, health access, anti-racism, and community-based solutions to trauma in childhood. Since the conference last took place in 2019, there will not be one in 2020.
The National Health Resource Center on Domestic Violence (HRC) has supported healthcare professionals, survivors, policymakers, and others for 20 years. It’s part of the Futures Without Violence organization. The HRC receives funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Family & Youth Services Bureau, and other organizations.
International Conference on Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, and Violence Across The Lifespan
Where: Washington, D.C., USA | When: April 2020
Held by End Violence Against Women International, this annual conference focuses on sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, and elder abuse. Attendees include victim advocates, faith leaders, educators, law enforcement members, and more. The three days (April 14-16) of the conference include general sessions, 60 workshops, and more than 100 presenters. Over 2,000 professionals are expected to attend in 2020.
End Violence Against Women International is a nonprofit multidisciplinary training and expert consultation organization. Their mission is to inspire, educate, and equip on issues related to gender-based violence. This includes offering professional training programs, developing resource material, and conducting research.
