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| Photo by Ahmed akacha on Pexels |
By Glory Ogunbodede
Displacement is a pressing global issue, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Defined as the forced movement of individuals due to conflict, natural disasters, or persecution, displacement has a profound impact on those affected, particularly women. According to a report by UN Women, more than half of the world's internally displaced people (IDPs) are women and girls: “In 2023, an estimated 117.3 million people were forcibly displaced due to persecution, conflict, and violence, 70 percent higher than in 2018 and half of the forcibly displaced population are women and girls.”
While these figures are alarming, it is important to note that displaced women experience unique challenges that threaten their health and well-being. As we mark the 2024 16 Days of Activism, we must raise awareness about these challenges, highlight the importance of addressing them, and provide insights into displaced women's health and well-being needs.
The health and well-being challenges faced by displaced women are multifaceted. Many experience a lack of access to healthcare services, leading to untreated medical conditions, mental health issues, and reproductive health concerns. Other unique challenges include gender-based violence, socioeconomic conditions, and food insecurity
Access to Healthcare Services
One of the most significant barriers faced by displaced women is access to healthcare. Displacement often disrupts access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, increasing the risk of exposure to infectious diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria. Many displaced women live in temporary shelters or refugee camps where medical facilities are limited or non-existent, which means these diseases often go untreated. Additionally, the lack of access to routine healthcare services can lead to complications for displaced women, particularly the elderly, who may suffer from unmanaged chronic diseases such as hypertension or diabetes.
Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
The psychological impact of displacement can be significant. Many displaced women suffer from health issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, stigma, discrimination, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to losing their homes, loved ones, and familiar surroundings. Additionally, challenging socioeconomic conditions, such as unemployment and social isolation, can further heighten the risk of mental health problems.
Maternal and Reproductive Health
Limited access to contraception and maternal healthcare can have serious consequences for women's reproductive health. Pregnant women, for instance, face increased risks during times of displacement, which can lead to complications in both pregnancy and childbirth. Insufficient access to routine care endangers the health of pregnant women and their babies, while a lack of emergency care can be life-threatening. Research indicates that in any population, up to 15 percent of deliveries may experience a life-threatening complication that requires urgent medical attention.
Gender-based Violence
Women who are displaced face a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence, especially if they are traveling alone or crossing borders without proper documentation. Sexual violence is a widespread issue and a medical emergency that can lead to severe physical and mental health consequences.
On average, one in three women will encounter some form of sexual violence or intimate partner violence at some point in her life. However, the risk of sexual violence increases significantly for women in displacement situations. Conflicts often result in families being torn apart, leaving individual women and children particularly vulnerable to attacks. In the unsafe conditions of refugee or internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, women may resort to prostitution to support their families, face sexual exploitation by those in positions of authority, or be assaulted while gathering water or firewood.
Nutrition and Food Security
Displacement often results in food insecurity, negatively impacting the nutritional status of women and their families. Limited access to nutritious food and disruptions in food security can lead to malnutrition, especially among pregnant and lactating women and children.
After discussing these challenges, it is essential to focus on solutions. Addressing the unique health and well-being needs of displaced women requires a multi-faceted approach. This should include strengthening health systems, providing mental health support, offering community workshops and programs, protecting women’s rights, and ensuring access to food security.
Strengthening Health Systems
Establishing mobile health clinics and community health programs can help protect displaced women from infectious diseases and prevent health complications. These initiatives will ensure that women receive essential medical care, including maternal health services and mental health support.
Mental Health Support
Access to mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and other forms of psychosocial assistance, is essential for helping displaced women cope with their experiences. Social support from community organizations and NGOs can empower these women to manage their mental health effectively. These networks encourage self-care practices, facilitate connections, provide resources, and foster a sense of belonging among women who have endured similar hardships.
Community Workshops And Programs
Economic opportunities can be created for displaced women in the community through skills training, microfinance programs, and access to employment. These women often encounter significant barriers to finding work, which limits their ability to support themselves and their families. Offering vocational training and skill development programs within their communities is essential for helping them regain financial independence and stability.
Additionally, effective health education programs tailored to the specific needs of displaced women can greatly improve their health outcomes. Workshops covering topics such as reproductive health, nutrition, and mental well-being can provide women with essential knowledge and empower them to make informed decisions about their health.
Protecting Women’s Rights
Laws that protect women from violence and discrimination, and ensure their access to justice, must be effectively enforced. Displaced women should be empowered to advocate for their rights by providing them with the necessary information to seek care and support. Successful initiatives that focus on women's rights and access to services can lead to significant positive changes in their lives.
Access To Food Security
Governments should implement policies that ensure food security for displaced individuals. This can be achieved through food assistance programs. Additionally, organizations and NGOs can take the initiative to provide food provisions to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and raise awareness about healthy eating habits.
Conclusion
Displaced women face numerous health and well-being challenges that require urgent attention. Addressing these needs—ranging from physical health issues to mental health support and empowerment initiatives—is crucial for improving their quality of life, rebuilding their lives, overcoming adversity, and thriving in their new circumstances.
As we reflect on the resilience of displaced women, it is essential to advocate for initiatives that support their health and well-being. Shades of Us promotes the voices of African women. By amplifying their diverse experiences, we acknowledge the unique challenges they face, particularly regarding gender-based and sexual violence. Advocating for their voices and promoting sustainable solutions aligns with our commitment to holistic storytelling and community empowerment.
According to Alexandra Bilak, the Director of the Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), “The Sustainable Development Goals will not be achieved by 2030 unless internal displacement, and the plight of displaced women and girls in particular, receive greater attention; starting with better data and analysis, and followed by concrete action,”
This situation calls for a collaborative effort. By raising awareness and fostering community support, we can empower these women to reclaim their lives and thrive in challenging circumstances. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of displaced women, ensuring they receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve.
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