Refugees and sexual violence

ICRH draws attention to the problem of sexual violence against and among refugees. Research shows that refugees are on average more at risk of becoming victim of sexual violence. Even if reliable figures are lacking about the prevalence of violence in the current stream of asylum seekers, there is no reason to assume that this problem wouldn’t occur this time. Being a victim of sexual violence may have considerable and lifelong consequences on health and psychosocial wellbeing.

There is an urgent need to bring together experts and actors involved together to assess the situation, define a strategy and set up programmes to face the challenges and safeguard the safety and wellbeing of asylum seekers with respect to sexual violence. An press communication on this topic was picked up largely by Flemish news media.

 

More information: Dr. Ines Keygnaert