Research, data collection and analysis are critical to effective advocacy efforts and resource mobilization, programme development, policy implementation and monitoring of interventions.
Systems for regular data collection and analysis can involve partnerships between government, international organizations, civil society and academic or research institutions at both the national and sub-national level. Coordinated response efforts should take into consideration the types of data that are already available. For a listing of the main sources of data already available by country, see Fast Facts: Statistics on Violence against Women and Girls.
Coordinated responses should ensure that each agency maintains data for monitoring and evaluation. They should also keep victim/survivor data secure and confidential. Data should be anonymized when used for monitoring and evaluation purposes, regardless of whether it is used for collecting, recording or reporting.
Only individuals with a demonstrated need should have access to personally identifiable information. It is best to provide personally identifiable information only in the following specifically designated circumstances:
- Consent of the victim/survivor;
- Immediate threat of harm;
- Actual or potential harm to a child or adult with diminished capacity; or
- As required by law.
For more information on the systems and processes for the collection and analysis of data, see Conducting research, data collection and analysis.