Increased Vulnerability
Refugee women often bear the brunt of caregiving duties for children and elderly family members.
They are often among the last to flee conflict zones, putting them at greater risk.
Mental Health Struggles
Refugee women are twice as likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and over four times as likely to experience depression compared to men.
High rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among displaced women due to trauma and adverse living conditions.
Exposure to Abuse
Women face increased risks of sexual violence, including transactional sex and other forms of gender-based abuse.
Limited social networks and stigma related to mental health issues further exacerbate their vulnerability.
Limited Access to Services
Mental health services are often inadequate, with refugee women facing long wait times and barriers in accessing care.
Communication difficulties and lack of awareness about available services hinder their ability to seek help.
Socio-Economic Challenges
Limited financial resources lead to prioritization of physical over mental health needs and unequal treatment of women compared to men.
Refugee women with psychosocial disabilities are often excluded from protections guaranteed under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
Disrupted Social Support Systems
Displacement often means losing established support networks, making it harder for women to find assistance and solidarity.
Conflicts and displacement can lead to the separation or loss of family members, intensifying psychological distress.
Lack of Representation
Refugee women frequently have limited opportunities to participate in decision-making processes related to their own welfare and community support.
Traditional patriarchal structures in host societies may further marginalize refugee women, reducing their visibility and access to aid.
Educational Barriers
Displacement often disrupts educational opportunities for women and girls, impacting their long-term prospects and personal development.
Access to educational resources and programs can be restricted in refugee camps or host countries.
Legal Exclusion
As non-nationals, refugee women often lack access to the same legal protections and rights as citizens, including health care and social services.
Existing laws and policies may not explicitly cover the needs of refugee women, leading to gaps in protection and support.
Unstable Living Conditions
Refugee women often live in overcrowded or substandard conditions in camps or informal settlements, which can exacerbate health and safety issues.
Insufficient access to clean water, sanitation, and nutrition further undermines their well-being and dignity
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
UNCRPD was adopted in 2006
It defines persons with disabilities as those “who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”
India ratified the Convention in 2007
The Indian Parliament enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 with a view to fulfilling the obligations under the UNCRPD
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