People do not exist as isolated entities, yet too often we see social policies that are targeted only at an individual level. In societies, that overemphasise the individual, community research sheds light on truths that are frequently ignored and try to bring about social change. Social change comes in many forms, but all forms of change can benefit from an informed and engaged society.

The impact of community research on social change is an ongoing issue. Some critics have argued that such research is irrelevant and not responsive to social issues, while others, have claimed that such researcher can contribute to social development. We believe that this type of research gives people more power over the issues that affect them or over changes that are taking place around them. By bringing people from communities together, they can overcome collectively their experiences of disempowerment. This type of change, catalysed and sustained by the people most affected, is most likely to lead to long lasting success.

We are happy to present the results of our year-long research project; The femLENS Community Survey 2021-2022 which had 176 participants from all over the world (from 25 countries), sharing their experience on work/employment, finance, education access, community, activism, ethics and gender inequality.

DOWNLOAD THE SURVEY REPORT

READ THE SURVEY REPORT

 

Authorship and Research Acknowledgements

Elena Palaiorouta is a postgraduate of Stockholm University in Sweden where she received her Master’s degree in Social Anthropology. She is originally from Athens, Greece currently based in Zagreb, Croatia. She has dedicated her career working in institutes and organisations who advocate towards equality and aiding the underrepresented to be heard and elevated.

Tiffany Mi works in research and strategy in the U.S. She enjoys documentary photography and digital manipulation, which are complete opposites.