Evaluation of Social Services for Women Survivors of Domestic Violence in Albania: A Qualitative Assessment of Reintegration Mechanisms

Sabina Belshaku
Lecture

Abstract

Domestic violence against women remains a pervasive human rights violation worldwide. In Albania, the phenomenon is deeply embedded in patriarchal traditions and socially constructed gender hierarchies that reinforce women’s dependence and normalize male authority. Although legislative reforms have strengthened the national framework for the protection of survivors, limited research has evaluated the effectiveness of public social services from the perspectives of both beneficiaries and service providers. This qualitative study explores and evaluates social services offered to women survivors of domestic violence, focusing on needs assessment, perceived quality of services, and reintegration preparedness. A purposive sample of 50 participants was divided into three focus groups: survivors residing in shelters, shelter staff members, and institutional representatives (ministries, municipalities, police). Data were collected through structured and semi-structured interviews, case studies, and secondary data analysis. Findings indicate that while protection services are functional, reintegration mechanisms remain fragmented, underfunded, and insufficiently coordinated. Survivors require not only trauma recovery and protection but also long-term economic empowerment and social inclusion strategies.

Presentation