Sixteenth International Conference on Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Abstract

According to the United Nations (2020), Guatemala remains a country with one of the highest rates of violence against women and femicide (9.7 in 100,000), a term used when referring to gender-motivated homicide (Ogrodnik & Borzutzky, 2011). Despite international and domestic legal frameworks and policies implemented in an effort by the Guatemalan government to reduce the prevalence of gender-based violence, barriers to implementation has caused roadblocks to reducing the prevalence of violence against women, among many other complex factors (Advocates for Human Rights, 2017). This transdisciplinary research study examined current best practices and challenges in addressing gender-based violence prevention in Guatemala. Individual in-depth interviews with 12 individuals employed at non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on gender-based violence in Guatemala were conducted. Qualitative data was analyzed using coding, sorting, local integration, and inclusive integration. Existing theory and literature from various applicable disciplines were referred to while analyzing and interpreting the data. Findings indicate significant financial need for NGOs working towards gender-based violence prevention, particularly during an increase in gender based violence in both rural and urban areas during the global pandemic.