In the realm of global health, discussions around sexual violence have typically oscillated between critical interventions and idealistic roadmaps for decolonization. Yet, a new study examines how perspectives from Zambian stakeholders introduce complexities that challenge mainstream narratives, illuminating the multifaceted realities of sexual violence and the sociocultural factors inherent to it. The research underscores a crucial facet of the global health discourse: the necessity of grounding policy frameworks in local realities rather than imposing external agendas.
The notion of decolonization in health contexts has gained traction, particularly in light of growing movements for social justice. Activists and scholars alike advocate for dismantling systemic inequities and acknowledging historical injustices embedded within health frameworks. However, the Zambian context serves to complicate these dialogues. Stakeholders express concern that global health policies may oversimplify their experiences and aspirations, overlooking the unique cultural, social, and economic landscapes of Zambia.
Through a qualitative approach, this study includes interviews with various stakeholders involved in addressing sexual violence in Zambia, capturing a wide spectrum of voices ranging from healthcare providers to community leaders. The respondents articulated a dissonance between their lived realities and the goals espoused by international health entities. Many emphasized that a singular focus on decolonization fails to recognize ingrained societal values and beliefs about gender roles and sexuality that significantly influence the dynamics of sexual violence in their communities.
Moreover, the findings reveal that while stakeholders support the overarching goal of decolonization, there are diverging views regarding what decolonization should prioritize. Some advocate for an emphasis on local empowerment and community ownership of health initiatives, arguing that such an approach would yield more meaningful and sustainable change. Others caution that without addressing deeper structural issues, including poverty and educational disparities, efforts to decolonize health will remain superficial.
The participants also highlighted the risky political landscape in Zambia, where discussions about sexual violence are often met with stigma or hostility. This reality necessitates that advocates and policymakers navigate delicate cultural sensitivities. Stakeholders expressed the belief that global health discourses must adapt to the complexities of their contexts. They urged for nuanced dialogue that transcends broad humanitarian goals, fostering engagement that genuinely respects local knowledge and practices.
Another critical point raised was the interplay between sexual violence and economic considerations. Issues of economic empowerment, access to resources, and education were recurrent themes in the conversations. Many community leaders pointed out that simply advocating for rights and services without addressing the economic realities faced by the population may lead to a facade of progress. Effective interventions must integrate economic and social elements that reflect the intricate web of factors contributing to sexual violence.
The impact of gender norms and stereotypes in the Zambian context cannot be understated. Stakeholders argued that cultural beliefs shape attitudes towards women, empowering aggressive masculine behaviors and perpetuating cycles of violence. This scenario underscores the necessity for educational initiatives that reshape perceptions around gender and violence, empowering communities to foster healthy interactions. Participants claimed that global health agencies aiming for decolonization must acknowledge the vital role of education in shifting mindsets and ultimately reducing incidents of sexual violence.
The Zambian case presents a vibrant interplay between local aspiration and global systemic challenges. As each stakeholder contributed insights, a poignant theme emerged: the desire for health systems that are not just decolonized in theory, but decolonized in practice. This involves crafting policy frameworks that prioritize engagement with indigenous knowledge systems while being alert to the broader geopolitical influences that shape health.
Throughout the study, participants shared personal stories that illustrate the emotional and psychological toll that sexual violence has on victims and their communities. These narratives serve as a stark reminder that behind statistical data and policy discussions are real lives affected by systemic injustices. The necessity of empathy in addressing sexual violence resonates throughout these accounts, suggesting that health interventions must be holistic and person-centered.
The research findings ultimately point to a profound call for action within the global health arena. As stakeholders in Zambia navigate their complex realities, there is a pressing need for international actors to heed these voices. Crafting a framework for decolonization that seeks to empower local communities and prioritize culturally informed strategies could significantly alter the landscape of sexual violence intervention.
Furthermore, as this research unfolds, it poses essential questions about the effectiveness of current global health agendas. Are they sufficiently responsive to the realities of those they aim to serve? The Zambian experience suggests that a more substantive dialogue is needed, one that transcends the conventional boundaries of global health discourse.
In light of these findings, there is an urgent need for ongoing dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and practitioners alike. Collaboration that invites local perspectives into broader health conversations will be vital for achieving meaningful change. As the push for decolonization continues, it is paramount that the voices from Zambia—and similar contexts—are amplified. This dialogue will not only enhance our understanding but will also inform the strategies that ultimately shape health systems in a just and equitable manner.
The implications of this research extend far beyond Zambia, drawing global attention to the nuances of sexual violence in various cultural contexts. It is an invitation to reexamine assumptions, cultivate partnerships rooted in shared understanding, and advocate for robust policies that reflect complexities rather than oversimplifications. The path toward true decolonization remains fraught, but through rich dialogue and local engagement, a more inclusive and effective health landscape can emerge.
Subject of Research: Stakeholder perspectives on sexual violence in Zambia and implications for global health decolonization efforts.
Article Title: “I think it is quite naive to think everybody’s goal is that”: how Zambian sexual violence stakeholder perspectives complicate global health roadmaps to ‘decolonization’.
Article References:
Breton, N.N., Mukupa, N.L. & Mushota-Mafwenko, M. “I think it is quite naive to think everybody’s goal is that”: how Zambian sexual violence stakeholder perspectives complicate global health roadmaps to ‘decolonization’.
BMC Health Serv Res 25, 1364 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13188-5
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12913-025-13188-5
Keywords: Sexual violence, Zambian health context, decolonization, global health, stakeholder perspectives.
