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Are there any differences in gender-based discrimination between asylum seekers and refugees?

Everet Lovelock

When it comes to gender-based discrimination, unfortunately, asylum seekers and refugees are not equally protected. Both groups face significant barriers and risks due to their legal status as foreigners in a new country, but asylum seekers often have even less protection than refugees.

For starters, refugees have already been granted legal status and protection by the host country, whereas asylum seekers are still in the process of seeking protection. This means that refugees have access to more legal protections, such as the right to work and access to basic services, whereas asylum seekers may be limited in their rights and may lack access to these services.

However, gender-based discrimination is not limited to legal protections alone. Discrimination often occurs in social settings or experiences. For example, women may be at greater risk of sexual assault or exploitation due to their status as asylum seekers or refugees. In addition, gender-based violence may further exacerbate the trauma that refugees have already experienced, as well as limit their ability to effectively integrate into their new communities.

Moreover, gender-based discrimination often intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as race, religion, and ethnicity. Certain groups may be more vulnerable to discrimination due to the intersection of these factors. For example, women from minority backgrounds may be at greater risk of discrimination than women from more privileged backgrounds.

Overall, while both asylum seekers and refugees face significant barriers related to gender-based discrimination, it is important to recognize and address the specific challenges faced by asylum seekers in particular. Additionally, it is important to recognize the intersecting factors that may make certain individuals more vulnerable to discrimination and work to address these issues. As a society, we must strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all refugees and asylum seekers, regardless of gender or other factors.