In the latest RSC Working Paper, Cleophas Karooma et al. show that the prolonged stay experienced by protracted refugees increases their vulnerability to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The study focuses on Nakivale refugee settlement in Uganda.
Uganda’s refugee settlements are characterized by protracted refugees due to prolonged conflicts in neighbouring countries and the inability to find a lasting solution for the refugees. In these settlements, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) is widespread yet remains a silent affliction among women and girls, as well as men and boys. This empirical qualitative study shows that prolonged stay has increased vulnerability to SGBV by creating new forms of violence and exacerbating existing ones.