Refugee studies and gender

Abstract

The concept of refugee status, developed in the twentieth century in response to unprecedented violence in Europe, is rooted in the forced displacement of millions due to ethnic cleansing and genocide. This study presents a comparative analysis of the construction of refugee protection and its political, legal, and social implications in Europe and Mexico, with a particular focus on feminist and gender perspectives that are essential for understanding the specific experiences of refugee women. A central focus of this study is the examination of gender-specific forms of persecution—often overlooked in traditional refugee studies—including sexual and domestic violence, which predominantly affect women. This analysis also addresses the historical invisibility of women’s experiences in the refugee context and highlights pioneering contributions that have brought these issues to the forefront. Additionally, the study explores the pervasive issue of sexual violence, the challenges surrounding the credibility of female refugees in asylum processes, and the contemporary critiques that advocate for a broader and more nuanced gender perspective in refugee protection. The study begins with a historical overview of the concept of “refugee,” examining its evolution and the development of international legal frameworks, notably the Geneva Conventions. It then analyzes asylum policies in Europe and Mexico, addressing the challenges posed by recent refugee crises, such as those resulting from the Syrian and Ukrainian conflicts. The study concludes by advocating for a more inclusive and gender-focused approach to refugee protection and recognizing the unique challenges faced by women in seeking asylum and the need for legal frameworks to address these challenges effectively.