Exploring the Intersectionality of Internal Displacement and Gender-Based Violence in Africa
摘要
This chapter examined the intersectionality between internal displacement and gender-based violence in Africa. The structural failures of most African countries, engendering climate-related challenges and insecurity, have led to the displacement of millions of people from their communities in several African countries. Available data indicates that the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Nigeria, Somalia, and Ethiopia account for the largest number of internally displaced persons in Africa, accounting for an estimated 5.5 million, 3.5 million, 3.2 million, 2.9 million, and 2.7 million, respectively, in 2022. While such displaced persons suffer the loss of properties, livelihoods, and lives of family members, placement in internally displaced persons camps has also exacerbated a new problem of gender-based violence. Internally displaced persons are not only at risk of insecurity, but also exposed to diverse forms of sexual exploitation and rape. The chapter argues that efforts should be made to ensure that policies are put in place to protect their sexual rights and socio-economic challenges. The chapter therefore, examined the intersection of internal displacement and gender-based violence in Africa. Using a descriptive case study approach, the chapter examined the nexus between internal displacement and gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Sudan; countries with the highest number of internally displaced persons in Africa. Secondary data were used and findings were presented thematically and in percentages. The chapter concludes that to ensure the protection of the sexual rights of internally displaced persons, appropriate policies should be put in place.