Refugee Women Breaking Barriers | Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD)

Cover image: Joséphine, Dorcas, Murielle and Grace (from left to right) are refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and representatives of the DAFI Women Power Club in Burundi, which uses mentoring to prepare young female DAFI scholars for leadership roles. ｜ © UNHCR/Antoine Tardy

Today, more than 60 million women and girls remain forcibly displaced or stateless across the globe. After having fled conflict, violence and human rights abuses, many continue to live on the frontlines of crises, separated from loved ones and exposed to increased risks of poverty, exploitation and further violence. They face huge barriers as they try to continue their education, find ways to support themselves and get access to healthcare and other critical services.

But despite these challenges, they are more than refugees and survivors of displacement; they are mothers, students, business owners, leaders and skilled professionals. Given the chance, their knowledge and lived experiences can help to bring solutions to their communities. UNHCR is working to ensure that displaced women’s voices are heard in decision-making processes which affect their lives. To do this, we are partnering with refugee-led organizations, particularly those led by women, and helping refugee women to access higher education and employment.

Source: UNHCR