Dr. Elizabeth Ward

Participation as The Gleaner's guest editor provided an opportunity to highlight the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA). The processes provided an opportunity to build VPA awareness and show links to existing projects, and how all sectors of the society have a vital role to play in prevention.

The complex issues associated with violence require that comprehensive, multifaceted programmes are established to deal with the problem. As guest editor, one had the opportunity to guide the process of providing information on pro-grammes that show great promise. The experience provided under-standing of print media, the challenges it faces, and power of its reach, locally and internationally.

Other issues impacting on violence prevention which need to be addressed include parenting, culture use, offender rehabilitation, small arms control issues, community rehabilitation, dispute resolution and restorative justice, intimate partner violence, the role of security forces.

The most encouraging feedback from readers was that the publication gave them a feeling of hope, and that programmes and individuals can make a difference.

There is no short-term solution to the problems of crime and violence; the media are a vital link in the solution. We look forward to long-term partnerships with the media to provide information on violence prevention.

Dr Elizabeth Ward

Consultant/research fellow