Intersectional Feminist Solutions to GBV in IDP camps

Gender-based violence (GBV) in internally displaced person (IDP) camps has been described as a “global pandemic” and “silent crisis”. Recent, widespread conflicts have led to an all-time high of IDPs, and instances of GBV in humanitarian contexts are also rising. Given both the sharp increase in humanitarian crises and data demonstrating a horrifying spike in GBV, this issue demands urgent global attention and resources. Innovative, long-term, and holistic measures are required to curb this unacceptable trend and protect the most vulnerable populations from GBV.

National governments, international organizations and NGOs endeavour to both respond to and prevent GBV in IDP camps. Response and prevention initiatives encompass a spectrum of interventions spanning from structural and physical camp enhancements to the implementation of improved justice mechanisms, to the promotion of women’s empowerment and adoption of policies.

This policy paper outlines the most promising solution to GBV prevention: Gender Transformative Approaches (GTA). It provides essential criteria for effective GTA including conducting thorough assessments, prioritizing women and girls through an intersectional lens, engaging men and boys, as well as the community as a whole, empowering the community, strengthening services, and securing sustainable and integrated funding. The paper also provides five case studies from different contexts and, ultimately, serves as a guide and advocacy tool for organizations as well as individuals working in GBV prevention for integrated services and programming within displacement settings.

Read the full brief here.