The Influence of Economic Burden on the Prevalence of Domestic Violence in Egypt: Perspectives of Sudanese Male Refugees
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/jgrs.3556Keywords:
Sudan, Egypt, Refugees, unemployment, UNHCR, Gender-Based Violence, Domestic abuse, Economic hardshipAbstract
Purpose: The study aimed to investigate the causes of gender-based domestic violence, particularly focusing on how increased unemployment due to migration and displacement contributes to such violence. It also sought to understand the effects of this violence on the victims’ lives, emphasizing the need to address underlying gender dynamics within refugee communities.
Methodology: The research was conducted among informal leaders of the Sudanese male community, who are UNHCR asylum seekers residing in Cairo’s Ard El Lewa neighborhood of Giza. Twelve individuals were selected for two focus group discussions; nine participants had been registered for periods ranging from three to thirteen years and spoke Arabic and other Sudanese languages. Data collection involved a comprehensive questionnaire and a qualitative approach to explore the unnoticed and unreported causes of domestic violence.
Findings: The findings highlighted that excessive unemployment among refugee men significantly contributes to domestic violence, serving as a "trigger point" for violent situations at home. The study also identified an increase in violence due to reduced activity levels and psychological issues, which negatively affect emotional health. The results underscored the importance of understanding cultural and gender-specific factors influencing violence within this community.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of gender-based violence by emphasizing the role of economic and psychological stressors in refugee contexts. Practically, it recommends establishing ongoing discussions within the male refugee community either in single sex groups or demographically sensitive formations to clarify concepts of violence and identify culturally appropriate support services. Policy wise, there is a need for broader awareness and intervention strategies that address the latent gender dimensions of violence, promoting culturally sensitive approaches to prevent and respond to GBV among refugee populations.
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