H. Research priorities

Practitioners should decide on research priorities based on local needs and resources. Definitions of domestic violence and solutions to the problem may vary according to national contexts. Researchers in each country need to explore the nature and scope of the problem within the country, as well as identify existing and needed strategies for dealing with the problem. For instance indigenous strengths, such as extended family networks, and community social control mechanisms may sometimes be adapted to confront the issue of domestic violence.

Researchers in each national and local context are in the best position to evaluate the applicability of innovative solutions from around the world and their potential utility for practitioners.

Establishing research priorities depends on the social, cultural, economic and legal framework for responding to domestic violence in a particular context. By setting up a research strategy, practitioners can focus research efforts on priority areas so that research meets long-term, short-term and urgent information needs.

Establishing criteria for prioritizing research projects may help to ensure the appropriate distribution of resources.²⁰² Answers to these questions may help set priorities:

· What will practitioners gain from the research project?

· Who will benefit?

· How many people will benefit?

· Will the research add to an understanding of current priorities and policies?

· Do knowledgeable individuals working in the area see the research as important?

· Are there adequate resources to carry out the research properly?

· Does the research design adequately address all ethical concerns?

· Will the research enhance the mutual understanding of practitioners in related disciplines?

· Will it help practitioners to work together?

· Is the research conducted with the spirit of local, national and international cooperation in mind?

National level mechanisms are in place in some countries to establish research priorities and oversee the distribution of research funds. For instance, Norway has a research programme on sexual and physical violence against women. The Government and research bodies finance this programme jointly.²⁰³