Methodological reflections: developing the WHO database of violence against women policies

This paper presents methodological reflections from the development of the World Health Organization (WHO) Violence against Women (VAW) Policies Database (hereinafter referred to as 'the Database') to inform future efforts to create similar public health policy databases for government accountability. Using the WHO Global Plan of Action on Violence accountability measures as a starting point, the Database was developed over a 2-year period in consultation with a reference group. A subset of indicators was piloted before finalization of a full list and the structure of the Database. Available VAW policies from 194 WHO Member States were reviewed by a team of consultants, who conducted content analysis and data entry. A 'Manual and User Guide' was developed to record decisions related to the processes for developing the Database. This guide was used to draw out key reflections in relation to policy indicators, inclusion criteria for policy documents, languages and analysis, quality assurance and sustainability. The process of developing the Database evolved iteratively in response to many factors, including the content of policies and the specificities of policy-making in each jurisdiction. Pragmatic decisions about the number of indicators and the types of policies to review were informed by pilot tests across a range of geographies. Standardization of analysis and data entry was ensured through the provision of in-depth guidance for researchers, and regular and open communication within the team was key to quality assurance. Online translation services enabled a review of policy documents in most languages. Documentation of the methodology ensured that others could replicate processes with fidelity in the future. Despite complexities, it is possible to develop a sound methodology for analysing the content of policy documents in a manner that yields findings that are useful in holding governments accountable for the commitments to address VAW and other public health issues in policy.