In 2014, half of the world’s refugee population were women and girls. WILPF representatives from 10 European sections met in Brussels to have in depth discussions of these issues. Asylum policies have tended to overlook the specific position of female asylum seekers and the gendered nature of refugees’ situations.
Asylum systems have largely been seen through the lense of male experience.
The law policy and practice in member states continues to vary significantly and there is a noticeable gap in the protection given to women seeking asylum in the EU.
The increasing numbers of women who do flee are vulnerable at all stages of their journeys; in countries of origin, transit and destination. As well as being a key driver behind women’s decisions to flee, gender-based violence is a common feature throughout journeys to and within the EU.
The members of WILPF present at the Brussels seminar call on members of the European Parliament to support the report ”On the situation of women refugees and asylum seekers in the EU (2015/2325)” and to vote in favour of the respective parliamentary resolution.
