The ZEFSG operates with a tripartite committee structure
The understanding of participation is based on the concept of, above all, involving the people whose “work and living conditions are the subject of the research” (Wright 2021, p.140) in the processes.
Young people, in particular, are involved
The ZEFSG ensures to particularly involve young people who are directly affected by the research topic, as well as survivors of sexual violence in childhood or adolescence. A committee of experts is also established in order to include experts from professional practice, academia and education.
The committees meet at least twice a year and are regularly in contact with the ZEFSG regarding a range of topics and matters. One of the ZEFSG’s key goals is to develop a participation framework that ensures these groups are involved appropriately and to the greatest extent possible in a genuinely participatory manner.
Survivors’ Advisory Committee
The Survivors’ Advisory Committee consists of six survivors of sexual violence in childhood or adolescence who consult on and contribute to decisions regarding all stages of the ZEFSG’s work. The committee currently comprises six members with diverse ages, backgrounds and educational experience.
Youth Advisory Committee
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of six members representing different sectors of youth associations and youth work. These include representatives from the German Sports Youth, the Bundesschülerkonferenz (Federal Student Conference), the peer counselling service for online violence JUUUPORT, and the DJI's Youth Advisory Committee. The Youth Advisory Committee also advises the Centre and contributes to decisions on how to proceed in important matters.
Expert Advisory Committee
An Expert Advisory Committee of up to twelve members provides guidance from both academic and professional perspectives. The committee represents academic disciplines such as criminology, psychology, education, sports science or sexology. From a professional practice perspective, the ZEFSG receives support from specialist counselling centres and youth welfare services, as well as the Bundeselternvertretung (Federal Parents’ Representation) and the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education, Science and Cultural Affairs.
Co-researchers
In addition, the "Safe!” study is supported by two adult survivors who serve as co-researchers.
Using their expertise, they support the study’s planning and implementation process and help to analyse and interpret the data collected. The co-researchers are therefore required to have an academic background.
The plan is for co-researchers to collaborate closely with project team staff, including via online workshops.
