Understanding and addressing intimate partner violence (IPV) in forced migrant (refugee) communities in Durban, South Africa

Forced migrants’ health is a global concern, especially because forced migration is expected to increase substantially driven by war and human caused climate change [1]. In South Africa, there are approximately 2.1 million forced migrants (refugees).

This population experiences poor health, driven by exposure to violence, and xenophobia, which further limits access to health care. High rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) have been found among these population [2].

However, little is known about how gender inequalities, xenophobia, and experiences of forced migration, intertwine to shape IPV among forced migrants.

This innovative study uses a mixed methods approach and co-development process with young (18-30) forced migrants to understand and then address IPV in forced migrant communities in Durban, South Africa.

I will first, using qualitative and quantitative data describe these issues, then co-develop with Youth Peer Research Associates (YPRAs), who are forced migrants themselves, an intervention to address IPV. Finally, I will assess the intervention’s feasibility and acceptability with young (18-30) forced migrants.

I will also, together with YPRAs, engage extensively with forced migrant communities, advocacy groups, and government, ensuring research translates to policy change. Study results will inform the co-design of a pilot RCT with this population.