Culture of Silence Among Rape Survivors in Refugee Community

Abstract

Rape is one of the most common forms of violence in war zone areas. It is also a tool being used to show power and control over others. As a result people flee their countries to live in squalid, sprawling shunts or settlements which are overcrowded and with no security thus allowing sexual violence to thrive especially in this vulnerable group of women and children who are refugees.

This study intends to examine the motivating factors or myths aboutrape that discourage the survivors to keep silent about their ordeal. I will use a purposeful study design where I will use interviews, questionnaires and focused group discussions to get information. It will be a qualitative and quantitative study. The results of the study will be used to assess the need for advocacy material/information to the stakeholders who are dealing with vulnerable groups of refugees' women and children. And also encourage survivors of rape to seek for medical treatment and justice.