Why SAIV? Intimate violence is a major global problem. What is less known is the link between violence in the home and violence in the world.

Victims of Intimate Violence are More Prone to Violent Behavior
The aftermath of violent homes is a higher risk for depression, substance abuse, and violent behaviors -- even if the violence is directed at another family member. The effects are not only emotional, but physical. Research from Harvard University and McLean Hospital shows that the brain neurochemistry of adults who grow up in violence and neglect is often optimized for the fight-or-flight response.

The Link Between Intimate Violence and International Violence
In her germinal book The Chalice & The Blade and her award-winning The Power of Partnership, Riane Eisler shows that throughout history, and cross-culturally, the most violently despotic and warlike cultures have been those where violence in homes is culturally condoned. We see this connection in Hitler's Germany and Stalin's Soviet Union. We see it in the Taliban, and other cultures that feed terrorism and war today. Logic alone tells us that early training to accept violence as a means of imposing one's will on others is useful to violent and repressive regimes.

Engaging Religious Leaders
It is estimated that over 80% of the world's population belongs to a major religion. These people often look to their spiritual leaders for guidance. Yet religious leaders have been mostly silent on the issue of intimate violence.

The greatest opportunity to reduce violence in the world is being missed. SAIV is working to change this.


IEP21 and SAIV

Jim Kenney, Executive Director of IEP21, served as Director of the SAIV initiative in 2005. He is currently a member of the SAIV Global Council and a consultant to the Project Steering Group