Focus: Refugee and Asylum-Seeking Women
Focus: Refugee and Asylum-Seeking Women
The refugee crisis is a worldwide phenomenon: UNHCR reports that at least 108.4 million people around the world have been forcibly displaced; among them are 35.3 million refugees. Women represent almost half of these figures.
Refugee and asylum-seeking women and girls face many risks and challenges when travelling from their home countries to seek safety, as well as arriving in host countries too. These can include family separation, stress and trauma, health complications (particularly for pregnant women), exploitation and gender-based violence. It is important to note that women often serve as the main caregivers for children and elderly family members, throughout dealing with the difficulties mentioned.
Stress and trauma as a result of events surrounding fleeing war, persecution and violence can be exacerbated by situations faced by women upon arrival in their host countries. Having to relive traumatic experiences during the asylum process can be incredibly distressing, particularly if women do not feel as though they will be believed. Furthermore, barriers in communication and access to services, education or employment, as well as perceived xenophobia and racism can also prevent women from being able to integrate and feel safe and welcome.
In 2020, three in ten people who applied for asylum in the UK were women and girls. The asylum system should be designed for those that it serves and sensitive to gender and cultural differences, as well as trauma informed. By placing women in decision-making roles and listening to their feedback of the migration process so far, these systems can become more sustainable and successful for all involved parties.
Interested in learning more? We are hosting a panel discussion on Life as a Refugee Woman during International Refugee Week 2023. The event will be held at our cafe, TRAMPOLINE, on Thursday 22nd of June from 6pm.
Featuring speakers from Bloody Good Period, Women for Refugee Women and Solace Women’s Aid.