Reproductive rights in times of conflict: a qualitative exploratory study of the lived experiences of GBV among Syrian refugee women in Lebanon

This project examines sexual and reproductive rights among Syrian women refugees in Lebanon, focusing on the link between reproductive rights and gender-based violence (GBV). Based on the testimonies of the participants, it will examine how gender-based violence is approached in reproductive healthcare settings. The study is expected to influence healthcare and public policy, the design of humanitarian initiatives, women’s empowerment, and relationship-building between non-governmental organizations working with refugee women. It will also contribute to the research literature on the link between gender-based violence and reproductive health as per women’s lived experiences, as well as how this link manifests in a setting of conflict and displacement.

The target community will be involved in research and survey design, fieldwork guidelines, and the final advocacy message. The project will include Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian women. The researchers intend for this approach to create connections and social cohesion, and to help give women the skills to advocate for their rights.

This project complements a growing cohort of IDRC projects focused on the nexus between sexual and reproductive health and sexual and gender-based violence.