The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) has officially opened abstract submissions for the SVRI Forum 2026, one of the world’s most significant global platforms addressing violence against women, violence against children, and intersecting forms of gender-based violence. With the submission deadline set for 30 January 2026, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, advocates, and programme implementers are encouraged to contribute evidence, insights, and innovative approaches that can inform prevention, response, and policy reform.
Importantly, abstracts are accepted in English, Spanish, and French, reinforcing SVRI’s commitment to global inclusion and knowledge exchange across regions and linguistic contexts.
A Global Platform for Evidence and Action#
The SVRI Forum is widely recognised for bridging the gap between research, practice, and policy. As a result, the Call for Abstracts provides a critical opportunity for contributors to showcase rigorous, ethical, and impactful work, particularly from low- and middle-income countries and resource-constrained settings.
Moreover, all submissions will undergo a robust peer-review process led by the SVRI Scientific Committee. This ensures that selected abstracts meet high standards of methodological quality, ethical integrity, and relevance to current debates in the field of violence prevention and response.
Types of Abstract Submissions#
Applicants may choose between two main categories of abstract submissions: single submissions and panel abstracts.
Research, Programme, or Practice-Based Abstracts#
Single submissions focus on one body of work and are reviewed independently. These abstracts may present findings from research studies, programme implementation, or practice-based knowledge (PbK). While multiple authors are permitted, only one abstract is submitted per contribution.
Notably, abstracts selected under this category may later be grouped into thematic panels by the Scientific Committee. This format is especially recommended for applicants sharing findings or lessons from a standalone project or initiative.
Panel Abstracts#
Panel abstracts, on the other hand, are coordinated group submissions that examine a shared theme through multiple linked perspectives. Each panel must include:
- One overarching panel abstract
- One individual abstract from each panellist
- Contributors from diverse institutions, regions, or sectors
However, panels based on a single study or project will not be considered. In addition, panel slots are highly competitive and limited, and SVRI reserves the right to merge, split, or modify panels to strengthen the overall programme.
Abstract Submission Process#
All abstracts must be submitted through Oxford Abstracts, the official online submission platform for SVRI Forum 2026. The process involves creating a user profile, completing the abstract form, and finalising the submission.
It is important to note that abstracts can only be edited while they remain incomplete. Once submitted, they cannot be modified. Any requests for changes to completed submissions must be directed to forums@svri.org.
Abstract Format and Content Guidelines#
To be considered for review, abstracts must adhere strictly to the prescribed format. Each abstract should be no longer than 350 words and include a working title of up to 25 words. In addition, submissions must be written in clear, accessible, and plain language, allowing them to stand alone as the sole basis for review.
Crucially, each abstract should clearly outline:
- The purpose and importance of the study, programme, or initiative
- The methods or approach used
- Key findings, outcomes, or lessons learned
- The relevance of the work and its contribution to knowledge, policy, or practice
Presentation Formats#
Submissions may indicate their preferred presentation format. Options include oral presentations for research or programme-based work, participation in a full panel, four-minute short presentations, and poster presentations. However, final decisions on presentation formats will rest with the SVRI Scientific Committee.
Review Criteria and Ethical Standards#
Abstracts will be assessed based on several criteria, including relevance, clarity, methodological rigour, significance of findings, and practical contribution to future research, policy, or programming. Particular emphasis will be placed on contextual relevance to low-resource settings.
Equally important are ethical considerations. SVRI requires evidence of ethics approval or a documented exemption, alongside clear descriptions of participant protection measures. Abstracts must demonstrate informed consent processes, confidentiality safeguards, risk management strategies, and referral pathways for participants affected by violence. Submissions lacking sufficient ethical detail may not be accepted.
Driving Impact Beyond the Forum#
Beyond knowledge exchange, SVRI Forum 2026 aims to strengthen global collaboration and advance evidence-based action to end violence. Through sponsorship and partnership initiatives, the Forum seeks to improve accessibility, enhance participation from underrepresented regions, and maximise its influence on global policy and practice.
With the abstract submission window now open, contributors have a vital opportunity to shape conversations, influence policy, and drive meaningful change on a global stage.
Clear Cut Research Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Jan 10, 2026 05:00 IST
Written By: Nidhi Chandrikapure
