Gender-Based Violence Against Migrant Women From Islamic Background: A Systematic Review of International Studies.
Zeinabu Mohamed Mahdi, Laura Aguilera Ávila, Miriam Álvarez Lorenzo
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesised 25 quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies published from 2004 to 2024 on gender-based violence among migrant women from Islamic backgrounds. Intimate partner violence was the most prevalent form reported and was associated with severe physical and psychological consequences. The review also identified female genital mutilation and forced marriage, alongside risk and protective factors operating at individual, relationship, service, and societal levels. The abstract does not report a pooled effect estimate or prevalence figure.
Key findings
- Intimate partner violence was the most prevalent form of violence reported and was linked to severe physical and psychological consequences.
- Female genital mutilation and forced marriage were also reported forms of gender-based violence.
- Language barriers, limited awareness of support services, partner control, and economic dependence were identified as risk factors.
- Knowledge of rights, assistance-service support, financial independence, and host-country legislation against gender-based violence were identified as protective factors.
Why it matters
The review highlights that violence and barriers to safety may be shaped by factors at several levels, from relationships and access to services to social norms and legislation. Recognising both risks and potential sources of protection can inform assessment and support approaches that account for migrant women’s circumstances without treating this population as homogeneous.
What to keep in mind
The review included studies with varied quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods designs, and was restricted to full-text studies published in English or Spanish.