The large influx Syrian refugees crossing over the border into the Kurdistan region of Iraq has resulted in four new refugee camps being established in the Erbil Governorate, with additional camps planned.
Whilst refugee camps provide improved safety and access to support services as compared to refugees living outside of camps, they still pose significant protection risks for women and girls, who are vulnerable to sexual harassment and abuse, social exclusion, forced/early marriage and restrictions on freedom of movement.
Despite the gravity of such abuse, gender-based violence remains a private and sensitive issue that is largely addressed within the home setting. Specialised, confidential and supportive services currently available to Syrian refugee women and survivors of GBV are not sufficient, and when such resources are available, Syrian refugees are either unaware of them of them or more likely do not trust those providing the support.
A safe space for women
NRC is addressing these challenges by providing a safe, confidential space for women and girls to report violence, develop support networks and strengthen coping mechanisms via a community “drop-in centre”, called “Alwaha”, meaning “oasis”.
Each centre is staffed by case managers who are able to assist women and men who need additional support for violence or other protection issues they may be facing in the home or camp community. Support is provided for immediate assistance as well as in the longer term.
Community outreach
Whilst the programmes, classes and social opportunities are being conducted at “Alwaha”, NRC staff will conduct weekly community outreach programmes within the same camp, identifying vulnerable individuals and households. Such individuals once identified are encouraged to utilise the services provided at Alwaha.
