The IADC English courses coordinator Dr. Angela Rinaldi, has published “Safeguarding and the Capabilities Approach for Integral Human Development,” which explores human development through the lens of abuse and safeguarding.
“There are threats to this development - among them, abuse, which undermines personal integrity and has devastating consequences for the body, mind, and spirit,” Angela emphasizes.
Her work draws on the reflections of Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum on the human capability approach, a paradigm that outlines how individuals are able to lead long, healthy, and creative lives. According to these authors, this process depends on fundamental elements such as physical and mental health, relationships with others and with nature, among others.
For victims of abuse, the traumatic experience - one that in itself fragments the person - makes the pursuit of such integration even more challenging. The researcher therefore highlights the need for structures and relationships (such as churches, schools, and sports environments) to provide support, enabling individuals not only to heal but also to contribute to a broader cycle of healing.
“Safeguarding implies the presence of a community that heals, protects, and allows the person to be free to flourish,” she concludes.