Women in the healthcare team of the Salvadoran insurgent movement (1974–1992): affective bonds, sexuality, and military discipline
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66778/LU.e02v07n03.03Abstract
Introduction: This article synthesizes a subchapter of the doctoral dissertation Reconstruction of the insurgent healthcare system implemented by the FMLN during the Salvadoran civil war (1974–1992). It analyzes the role of women within the healthcare team and the insurgent military structure, with particular attention to the dynamics of affective and sexual relationships, as well as organizational discipline. Objective: To document insurgent strategies aimed at preventing abuses against women and to analyze their potential replicability in civil and state institutions, with a view toward informing the formulation of inclusive public labor policies, particularly in the health sector. Methodology: The research is qualitative in nature, adopting an oral history approach; the primary technique used was in-depth interviews, complemented by the review of primary and secondary written sources, as well as audiovisual materials, images, and field diary records as additional data collection instruments. Results and discussion: The findings reveal the existence of organizational and disciplinary strategies aimed at protecting the physical, moral, and psychological integrity of women within the healthcare team and among combatants; leadership figures were identified who promoted environments grounded in a gender perspective, functioning as protective factors against potential abuse and fostering more equitable norms of coexistence, as well as greater safety and internal cohesion throughout the conflict. The analysis shows that this perspective emerged progressively and became transversal in the sociopolitical life of the insurgent movement, overcoming internal resistance and transforming power practices. Conclusion: This experience, which constitutes a significant historical reference, is relevant for academic analysis and for the development of inclusive organizational and workplace environments.
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