📘 PVCHR Featured in IRCT Global Evaluation Report on Livelihoods for Torture Survivors (2022–2024)
Date: July 2025
Author: PVCHR Communications Team
We are proud to share that the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) was included as a key contributor in the Evaluation Report of the IRCT Livelihoods Programme (2022–2024) — a significant milestone in the global movement to integrate economic justice into rehabilitation for survivors of torture.
The report, conducted by independent consultant Charlotte Ørnemark, covers the efforts of 19 IRCT member centres, including PVCHR, in implementing innovative and survivor-centered livelihood programmes. This evaluation affirms the essential role of livelihoods in restoring hope, dignity, and social reintegration for survivors of torture and systemic violence.
🔍 Key Takeaways from the Evaluation
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Livelihoods = Rehabilitation: The report demonstrates that access to livelihoods is not a “bonus” but a core component of holistic rehabilitation.
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Survivor-Centred Approach: Programmes work best when designed with direct input from survivors — many of whom face social exclusion and economic vulnerability after trauma.
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Creativity Amidst Constraints: Member centres like PVCHR have delivered real impact despite operating in resource-limited and high-risk environments.
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The Way Forward: The report emphasizes the need for strong partnerships and a sustainability lens to scale this work effectively.
You can access the full report on FABO or through IRCT’s official website, and explore member stories on their YouTube channel.
🎤 PVCHR's Contribution: Voices from the Field
As one of the participating organizations, PVCHR was recognized for our:
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Community-based model integrating testimonial therapy, legal aid, and livelihood restoration
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Creation of Folk Schools (Lok Vidyalayas) and survivor honor ceremonies
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Focus groups and direct survivor interviews, contributing unique insight to the evaluation
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Commitment to uplifting Dalit, tribal, and women survivors through dignified employment and community reintegration
Special mention was given to our fieldwork in Sonbhadra and Varanasi, and the story of Shaheeba Bano, who transitioned from widowhood and stigma to self-reliant mother and community icon.
📖 Read our blog post: Shaheeba Bano: From Injustice to Inspiration
🙏 A Message of Thanks
We extend our sincere thanks to the IRCT, the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, and the evaluation team for creating space to document the impact of this work. We also deeply appreciate the survivors who participated in interviews and focus groups, bravely sharing their journeys with honesty and resilience.
A special note of gratitude to Charlotte Ørnemark for her dedication in capturing the voices and nuances that make this work so meaningful.
🚀 What Comes Next
The findings and recommendations from this evaluation will shape the next strategic phase of the IRCT network. PVCHR is committed to:
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Expanding survivor livelihoods initiatives in rural and tribal areas
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Building new partnerships to sustain economic empowerment
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Advocating for policy recognition of livelihood loss as a form of structural torture
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Honoring the legacy of Farhat Shaba Khanam, our late psychosocial coordinator, by mentoring new frontline caregivers
🤝 Let’s Continue This Journey
At PVCHR, we believe economic justice is a human right. Together with our global partners, we are turning trauma into transformation—one sewing machine, one scholarship, one survivor at a time.
"Livelihood is not just survival—it's a declaration of dignity."— PVCHR Team
Final Evaluation of IRCT Livelihoods Project – Key Findings & Next Steps by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd
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