Find answers to all frequently asked questions here!
If you still find that you have any unanswered questions, please feel free to contact us at forums@svri.org
A. Abstract submission
1. Must abstracts follow any particular themes?
The SVRI Forum 2026 features seven thematic areas, which can be viewed here: https://www.svriforum2026.org/themes/. These themes are intentionally broad to reflect the diversity of research and practice across violence against women and violence against children. If your work does not fit neatly within a single theme, we still strongly encourage you to submit an abstract. The Forum programme is shaped by the work we receive, and we welcome emerging evidence, new perspectives, and topics across VAW, VAC, and other forms of gender-based violence.
2. Are abstracts valued/judged differently depending on whether it is submitted as an oral, poster or four-minute presentation.
No. All abstracts are blind reviewed by two independent reviewers using the same criteria, regardless of whether they are submitted for oral, poster, or four-minute presentations. Abstracts are not valued or judged differently by presentation format. As space is limited, we may not always be able to offer the presentation type requested, but all accepted abstracts are treated with equal importance within the programme.
3. Should my abstract include references?
No, due to limited character space this is not necessary at the abstract phase. You can list references in your presentation.
4. Is the abstract word limit of 350 words inclusive of the title?
No, the 350 word limit excludes the title which can be a maximum of 25 words.
5. Can I submit more than one abstract?
Yes, there is no limit to the number of abstracts you may submit. To support broad participation, presenters are usually limited to one presentation. If more than one abstract is accepted, we first encourage teams to nominate a co-author to present an additional abstract. Where this is not possible, and with prior agreement from the Scientific Committee, a presenter may be invited to present up to two abstracts.
6. If my abstract is rejected, will I get any feedback as to why it was rejected?
Unfortunately, due to the high volume of abstracts we receive, we are not currently able to provide feedback.
7. What type of research is accepted?
You are welcome to submit qualitative, quantitative or mixed method abstracts that are either research or programme/practice-based knowledge abstracts.
8. Can I submit an abstract on a research proposal or conceptual work that has not yet begun?
No. Abstracts must be based on research or programmes that are complete, near completion, or already underway and able to share findings, learning, or practical experience. Abstracts based only on proposals, ideas, or planned work that has not yet started are not eligible.
9. Can I still submit an abstract if I only have preliminary findings from an ongoing/pilot phase study?
Yes. Abstracts based on preliminary findings from ongoing or pilot-phase studies are welcome. When submitting, please clearly indicate the current stage of the research and ensure that it is made explicit that final or updated findings will be available in time for presentation at the conference. Reviewers will consider abstracts on the strength of the study design, relevance, and anticipated contribution to the field, even where full results are still forthcoming.
10. Are abstracts based on scoping or systematic reviews accepted?
Yes, these abstracts are welcome and can be accepted. They are more likely to be included in the programme as poster presentations. Our poster space is a dynamic and interactive part of the Forum, and we would encourage you to consider selecting this option when submitting a scoping review abstract.
11. Are individuals able to submit an abstract, or only organisations?
Both individuals and organsations are welcome to submit abstracts.
12. Is the SVRI Forum 2026 exclusive to certain countries?
No, this is a global event that welcomes participants of all nationalities. While the Forum is international in scope, it places a strong emphasis on research and practice from the majority world, reflecting where much of the work and learning in this field is taking place.
13. Do I need ethics approval in order for my research to be considered for presentation?
SVRI Forum is committed to care, safety, and responsible research practice. Because many submissions involve people affected by violence, research studies must have ethics approval or a documented exemption from an authorised body. Where formal ethics approval is not available or possible, the Scientific Committee may look for a clear description of the steps taken to protect participants, including informed consent, confidentiality, risk management, and referral pathways. Please see our guidance here.
B. Registration
1. How can I register to attend the SVRI Forum 2026?
Registration is now open and early bird rates will close on 28 February. Visit the registration page at: https://www.svriforum2026.org/registration/. For more information join the SVRI newsletter for updates and news about the Forum.
2. What does my registration to SVRI Forum 2026 include?
Registration for SVRI Forum 2026 includes:
- Access to the welcome function on the evening of 5 October.
- Access to all abstract driven conference sessions from 6–8 October.
- Access to all participant-driven events that are open to SVRI delegates from 6 – 9 October.
- Entry to the exhibition area.
- Conference materials, including a conference bag and programme.
- Access to wellness activities and counselling support.
- Daily catering during the abstract-driven conference from 6–8 October, including two tea breaks per day and lunch.
- Access to the conference gala dinner on 7 October.
Registration for pre-conference workshops is at an additional cost.
Please see the SVRI Forum registration page for more information at: https://www.svriforum2026.org/registration/
3. I have registered for the conference but haven’t paid yet. Am I confirmed to attend?
No, your attendance is not confirmed until payment has been received in full.
4. Can I register a group?
Yes, please proceed with your registration on Oxford and contact Celine Beneke at celine.beneke@mrc.ac.za for a 10% discount code for 10+ people. Please note that if you bring a group of 10 or more you also qualify as an automatic partner of the Forum to acknowledge your contribution to knowledge building. Please let us know if you have brought a group of 10+ at forums@svri.org.
5. Do presenters/chairs have to pay registration?
Yes, all presenters, session chairs and partners have to pay registration.
6. Can I pay registration on-site?
We strongly suggest that you register ahead of time as space is limited. Our ability to offer on-site registration is fully dependent on capacity which is usually reached a few weeks before the conference.
7. How do I request a refund?
Refunds are subject to terms and conditions. Cancellations must be sent in writing to the events management team. Please write to Mandy Salomo at mandy.salomo@mrc.ac.za.
C. Bursaries
1. Will bursaries be made available?
We are still in the process of securing funding. Bursaries are not guaranteed, but any made available will be shown here https://www.svriforum2026.org/bursaries/. Please note that should bursaries become available, we will prioritise abstracts accepted for presentation, and speakers from low- and middle- income countries who would not otherwise be able to participate.
2. I have been awarded a bursary but received other funding, how can I release the bursary so that it will be allocated to someone else?
Please send an email forums@svri.org with the subject “Declining bursary” so that we can allocate the bursary to others who may not have funding.
D. General Questions
1. Do I have to be an SVRI member to attend the SVRI Forum?
No, you don not have to be an SVRI member to participate in the Forum. We would however welcome your membership. Please join the SVRI network here.
2. What languages will be included in the Forum?
The Forum will take place in English. We are actively exploring a range of options to support understanding across languages and are guided by a strong commitment to language justice. The extent of interpretation and other language support services will depend on the need indicated in delegate registration information and available funding, and we will share updates as plans are confirmed.
3. How much does an exhibition stand cost?
Please see the Exhibitor page at: https://www.svriforum2026.org/exhibition-hall/ for more information on costs and how to apply.
4. Do I need a visa to enter Thailand?
Visa requirements for Thailand depend on your nationality. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visas on arrival, while others may require a visa in advance. We strongly recommend checking the official Thai embassy or consulate website in your country for the most up-to-date information. The SVRI Forum team will provide invitation letters to registered participants who require them and will share visa guidance on the Forum website soon.
5. How do I get a letter for my visa application?
An invitation letter to help you with your visa application will be provided once you have paid for your registration to attend the conference.