Ending Gender-Based Violence in Timor-Leste: Harmonia Activity

The activity is implemented by Health Alliance International (HAI) in Ermera and Liquica Municipalities, where rates of GBV exceed the national average. HAI partners with key stakeholders to deliver the Harmonia Activity through two complementary interventions: community-based microplanning and GBV training for health providers. Community-based microplanning involves bringing together an inclusive and intergenerational group of community leaders in facilitated sessions to identify and address local GBV problems. The microplanning process aims to reach a common understanding of the most pressing problems related to GBV and develop community action plans specific to local GBV issues. Information and learning events will be organized for the broader community on topics identified by the microplanning process. GBV training for health providers is a critical component of the Harmonia Activity. HAI will develop the "Responding to GBV" Learning Lab curriculum for training and mentoring all doctors, nurses, midwives, and health facility managers working in Ermera and Liquica. The Learning Lab will provide on-site competency training that helps health providers practice skills through case studies, practice simulations, and role-playing. The training aims to increase awareness, knowledge, sensitivity, and counseling skills to identify and support victims of GBV, including increasing referrals to appropriate support services. The Harmonia Activity is implemented in collaboration with key partners, including the Ministry of Health, National Institute for Health, Ministry of Social Solidarity and Inclusion, Secretary of State for Equality and Inclusion, local community-based organizations, and USAID. The activity aims to achieve social change regarding gender power relations and gender equality, improved gender-sensitive health services and referrals for victims of GBV, and an end to GBV driven by social change. Health Alliance International has a strong presence in Timor-Leste, having worked with the Ministry of Health since 2002. HAI's global experience and technical expertise are bolstered by its existing local presence, institutional preparedness, and established partnerships in Timor-Leste. The organization has successfully implemented over 100 grant- and independently-funded programs, including continuous programming in Timor-Leste since 2002.