The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees reported in 2011 that up to 60% of Nicaraguan women have been physically abused by a partner at least once.
So, Catholic Relief Services and its partner agency, Caritas Nicaragua, joined forces to reduce violence against women by providing education programs for men. Through the implementation of these education programs, the agencies see the potential to reduce violence, save women’s lives and promote healthy families in the process.
In 2010, the two agencies began 12 pilot programs in three areas in the central part of the country near Matiguas. There, training began for the education programs to convince men to change their behavior toward the women in their lives, especially their wives or partners.
According to Caritas Nicaragua, it takes more than a village to change men’s behaviors, especially when women are afraid to protest against violent behavior.
In Matiguas, not only were the families poor and living in remote communities, they had also survived for generations by working and living in a machismo culture. To change this cultural behavior, communication about the programs began with the men community leaders at meetings discussing with other community members about ways for changing this male-dominated culture.
Today, the program is benefiting the whole community. Many men who have been involved in the program, have expressed that they have changed positively and have become more caring and loving towards their families. After going through the program, one man said he finally sees the value of his family.
Thanks to this program, violence in families has gone down in Matiguas, and other more subtle changes are occurring as well. For instance, health workers noted that pregnant women making trips to the doctor were accompanied by their husbands.
For those living in remote areas, CRS and Caritas also support Casa Materna, homes for women in Matiguas and several other areas. About 20 such homes are scattered throughout the country and are benefiting many women.
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