Page 75 - Violence Prevention Through the Engagement of Violence Producers

CHALLENGES, STRENGTHS AND CONCLUSION

data collection requirements (forms, frequency of collection) and most importantly, data

entry into the Cure Violence database that were perceived as onerous. The generally low
level of education and computer skills among the VIs exacerbated this problem.

STRENGTHS OF THE VIP

The effectiveness of the VIP, locally and from other jurisdictions, can be regarded as its
main strength. However, other strengths of its approach, have allowed the Programme

to be effective despite significant challenges. Below, we briefly outline some of these
strengths.

Structure of the Model: The VIP serves both a crime reduction and a crime prevention

purpose and recognizes that both are linked. The detection and interruption of potential
shootings and the establishment of truces among parties in conflict are credible short-

term crime reduction measures that can be effective in reducing the level of violence.
However, this achievement will not be sustained if targeted participants (high risk youths

and violence producers) are not engaged and treated through effective interventions
relating primarily to psycho-emotional and employability issues. Further up the sustainability

ladder, the progress with changing norms that promote violence, achievements in
interrupting shootings and treating high risk participants will be compromised if wider

norms are not addressed. In view of the multi-sectoral character of crime and violence,
the model’s internal coherence and structure is a key strength.

Evidence-Based Approach: Owing to its structured, evidence-based approach, the VIP

can be a significant contributor to the overall safety and security strategy of the country.
International, regional and local evidence confirms the robustness of the model.

Appeal to Youth: A significant strength of the VIP is its appeal to the target population,

primarily the youth. Howard also observed this strength in a SWOT analysis of the CAGS
in Worcester, Massachusetts . This strength is derived largely from the VIP’s asset-based
61
approach to community change, and the utilization of local resources, capacities,
culture, competencies and networks. McKnight suggests three properties that make
62
up community: Gifts – the capacities of citizens; Association – voluntary association in
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
61 Howard 2018
62 McKnight 2010
57