A preliminary study about non-government organizations' approach to address violence against women in Iran

During the past years, 'violence against women' has changed its position. Now it is no longer considered as a matter concerning women, feminist or gender issues only. It has been recognized as a problem affecting human rights, public health, human development and family law. Feminist researchers have played the role in paving the way for others to pay attention to this serious problem. In addition, the international laws have improved; announcing that rape and other forms of sexual violence are actually 'crime against humanity, war crime, and even genocide. Unfortunately, even though these problems have become the focus of attention, little has been done to improve the quality of women's lives and its relation to family wellbeing. As a result since gender-based violence continues; lives of many girls and women are threatened; whether in peace or war. This study will focus on exploring and understanding Non-Government Organization's (NGO) approach to address gender-based violence. Specifically, the study investigates how, these organizations help to prevent violence against women and how It Influences the betterment of the family and society at large. It analyzes brochures, yearly reports and strategic planning reports on the interventions offered by the NGO to help against gender-based violence In Iran. The preliminary results indicate that the NGOs have Influence on government policy and rules on women and their rights