Research Publications Gender Violence

Understanding the Gaps in Delivering Comprehensive Sexual, Reproductive Health and Rights Services for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Survivors in Humanitarian Settings in Ethiopia

It is estimated that one in three women will experience sexual or physical violence in their lifetime. According to the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey report, sexual violence was reported to be 10%, but recent studies show a prevalence of over 40%. Despite the increase in prevalence, the reporting and care seeking behavior continues to be poor. It has been reported that Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) increases during conflict and the period following them, as it is used as a war tactic. During such times, the tendency to report and seek care is thought to decrease even more due to insecurity, displacement and the inability of the health system and other services to address these situations. Therefore, the study aimed to understand the existing gaps in disclosure and formal reporting of SGBV or sexual exploitation, barriers for care seeking and sexual and reproductive health (SRH)-SGBV care delivery to survivors exposed to violence during conflict or forced displacement from conflict. The finding provides evidence on how to offer, integrate and deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care in humanitarian settings.

Published: 2022

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It is estimated that one in three women will experience sexual or physical violence in their lifetime. According to the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey report, sexual violence was reported to be 10%, but recent studies show a prevalence of over 40%. Despite the increase in prevalence, the reporting and care seeking behavior continues to be poor. It has been reported that Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) increases during conflict and the period following them, as it is used as a war tactic. During such times, the tendency to report and seek care is thought to decrease even more due to insecurity, displacement and the inability of the health system and other services to address these situations. Therefore, the study aimed to understand the existing gaps in disclosure and formal reporting of SGBV or sexual exploitation, barriers for care seeking and sexual and reproductive health (SRH)-SGBV care delivery to survivors exposed to violence during conflict or forced displacement from conflict. The finding provides evidence on how to offer, integrate and deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care in humanitarian settings.