On the occasion of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the UNHCR Cyprus calls for strengthened efforts in preventing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) among the refugee community and improving responses for survivors.
“Despite increased awareness of SGBV and efforts to combat it, many women and girls among the refugee and asylum-seeking population in Cyprus continue to be at a heightened risk of these horrific violations of their rights,” Katja Saha, UNHCR Representative in Cyprus, said today. “It is crucial that we strengthen our work with governmental authorities, NGOs and local authorities through more targeted reception and integration programs. SGBV prevention and response must be a key component of our joint efforts to better protect such vulnerable groups.”
While several positive steps have been taken over the years to address SGBV at reception centers, as well as in the wider community, more needs to be done to effectively prevent SGBV and to protect survivors of SGBV. Empowerment of women and girls is essential. More projects should be pursued for additional and appropriate refugee housing solutions, enhancement of employment opportunities and childcare options for women and improved education and empowerment opportunities for girls, and in particular unaccompanied children. Funding for such programmes could be possible if they are included in the calls of the European Funds Unit.
Some areas of improvement are noted. When women and girls arrive at the Pournara First Reception Centre, vulnerability assessments have led to an improvement in the identification and protection of survivors or potential victims of SGBV, for example, through their referral to appropriate housing. The creation of safe zones for unaccompanied and separated children, as well as women and families, within the Centre aim at mitigating the risks of sexual and gender-based violence. The establishment of the Woman’s Center is noteworthy, as it serves as one-stop-shop where victims of SGBV are referred and can receive appropriate psychological and social support. The specialised police unit where an SGBV crime can be reported is also significant.
Despite the improvements, however, several complaints of SGBV continue to be reported by residents at the Pournara First Reception Centre every month. This is largely due to the deteriorating conditions at the centre that it is currently operating at more than double its capacity. Due to the meagre financial assistance afforded to asylum-seekers, and limited employment possibilities, many asylum-seeking women are at risk of homelessness. This leaves them even more exposed to exploitation and abuse. Many often have no other option than to return to Pournara and reside there unofficially, due to lack of housing in the cities.
Domestic violence prevails as another issue of concern. There are significant challenges in reporting the crime and establishing effective referral mechanisms. Victims struggle to access stable housing and appropriate psychosocial support. The issue is exacerbated by the long waiting periods while asylum applications with SGBV claims are examined. While a specialized police unit exists, often survivors of domestic violence are not aware of the procedures. They often cannot approach a police station or reach out for help. In many cases victims of domestic violence are reluctant to report the crime because they are dependent on the abuser – financially as well as in terms of their legal status.
UNHCR recommends that more steps be taken to address these ongoing challenges. Specifically:
UNHCR supports the vulnerability assessment procedure with staff seconded at Pournara. We organise trainings to enhance the capacities of the authorities for the timely identification – and appropriate response to the needs – of SGBV survivors. We advocate for the transfer of unaccompanied children out of Pournara to reside in more appropriate facilities and have access to education and recreational activities. UNHCR advocates for the inclusion of specific programmes for women, especially on access to employment and childcare, in the calls of the European Funds Unit, as well as in the national integration plan.
See also:
UNHCR Cyprus’ 2021 report noting the gaps and making recommendations to improve the SGBV prevention and response mechanisms.
UN Women: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
Call to Action on Protection from Gender-Based Violence in Emergencies
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