Enhancing Safety for Refugee Women and Girls: A Necessity in Migration Policies
The Refugee Council believes in ensuring better protection for women and girls in refugee accommodation, particularly in initial reception facilities. Meike Olszak from the Refugee Council highlighted concerns about safety in these facilities during the International Day to Combat Violence against Women. Despite the considerable worries, no uniform, publicly accessible violence protection concept exists in Baden-Württemberg.
Safety Measures in Initial Reception Facilities
Justice Minister Marion Gentges explained that single men, women, and families are usually housed separately in various sections with their own sanitary facilities in the state's initial reception facilities. To monitor the spatial separation, a security service is present, and there are additional measures to protect particularly vulnerable individuals, such as extended certificates of good conduct and background checks for employees and volunteers.
However, as Meike Olszak pointed out, one major problem for women is that they are not allowed to lock doors from the inside in these facilities, compromising their feelings of safety. The minister suggested supporting women in finding accommodation with relatives or in their own homes from the outset and eliminating the obligation for refugees to live in initial reception facilities.
Addressing Safety Concerns in Refugee Accommodation
Globally, around 50 percent of refugees are women and girls who often leave their homes due to gender-specific persecution, including genital mutilation, forced marriage, forced prostitution, and persecution based on sexual orientation. Proactive strategies, such as implementing community-based protection mechanisms, safe accommodation, protection policies, access to services, community-led initiatives, training and capacity building, and inclusive decision-making, are vital in safeguarding these women's well-being.
Community-Based Protection Mechanisms
Thorough risk assessments and community engagement can help create appropriate responses to protection concerns. This approach aims to involve displaced and stateless people in the assessment process to address their unique needs.
Safe Accommodation
Separate and safe facilities, such as shelters and bathrooms, for women and girls can help reduce harassment and violence risks. Additionally, ensuring secure living arrangements in well-lit and monitored facilities can provide a safer living environment.
Protection Policies
Policies like the Protected Areas Policy prevent ICE agents from entering sensitive zones, while public charge regulations should not discourage survivors from seeking help due to fear of immigration consequences.
Access to Services
Providing access to mental health services and legal support can help survivors cope with the emotional trauma and navigate the immigration system securely.
Community-Led Initiatives
Community-led initiatives, such as quick impact projects and community support projects, can empower marginalized groups, including women and girls, to build resilience and strengthen their communities.
Training and Capacity Building
Staff training on identifying and responding to gender-based violence and community capacity building can enhance the capacity of the community to protect and support vulnerable groups.
Inclusive Decision-Making
Involving women and girls in decision-making processes can ensure that their specific needs and concerns are at the forefront.
Emergency Response Plans
Establishing specific emergency response plans with partners and the community can ensure a prompt response to protection incidents, including those related to gender-based violence.
Conclusion
The rising number of violence against women in migration accommodations underscores the necessity of implementing robust measures to combat crime and provide secure environments for all refugees, particularly women and girls. By incorporating these strategies into comprehensive migration policies, it is possible to create a safer environment for vulnerable women in refugee accommodation.
