Mitigating gender-based violence and security challenges in Nigeria

Nigeria is confronting many intertwined challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic, to internal conflicts and civil unrest, to the worst economic recession in four decades. The insecurity brought on by the pandemic is also dramatically aggravating gender-based violence. We know from other studies in Nigeria that many women are unable or unwilling to report crimes of gender-based violence, such as domestic violence, assault, and rape, for fear of stigmatization and/or unequal access to justice against the perpetrators. This study proposes using data science and artificial intelligence tools to understand gender-based violence in Nigeria and to provide support for women who are at the highest risk. The project will provide a platform to enhance support for women's psychosocial well-being and collect and analyze anonymized data in order to help mitigate incidents of gender-based violence, improve women's security, and improve access to justice. This work will be carried out as part of the COVID-19 Global South Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Program, funded by IDRC and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.