Violence against women in camps? exploring links between refugee camp conditions and the prevalence of violence

Abstract

Although refugee camps are set up to provide protective environments for refu-gees in host countries, refugees can still be confronted with various risks in such situations of encampment. In this chapter, the forms and scope of gender-based violence against women in camps are explored and their relation to camp condi-tions are assessed. Based on empirical research, mainly conducted with Congo-lese refugees in a camp in Uganda, the chapter reveals that sexual violence, domestic violence, and structural discrimination constitute the main forms prev-alent in the camp. These occur despite humanitarian projects implemented to protect and assist refugees and especially women and, at times, even precisely because of the particular circumstances that exist in these settings. The limita-tions imposed by the camp and experienced within it, the hierarchical proce-dures, and the humanitarian focus placed on women can lead to frustration among refugees and directly or indirectly contribute to violence.