For women in refugee settlements, displacement is only the beginning of their challenges. Across the world, refugee and forcibly displaced women and girls face higher poverty rates, greater risks of gender-based violence, and fewer opportunities for education and employment.
We have taken notice that despite these challenges, women are often the backbone of society caring for families, rebuilding livelihoods, and strengthening social ties in refugee communities. Yet, they remain underrepresented in leadership and face systemic barriers that limit their potential.
Globally, women and children make up 50% of all refugees, with some regions seeing up to 80% women and children in displacement settings. Women in crisis-affected areas are four times more likely to drop out of school than boys.
“I used to rely on my husband’s decisions. Now, I confidently make my own choices – both at home and in the community.”
Gender equality is a vital part of our work in Uganda. We pay careful attention to supporting women in our programs, ensuring that at least 70% of beneficiaries are women. It is important for us to ensure that women have the resources, confidence, and opportunities to lead and thrive.
Turning Women Into Leaders and Changemakers in Our Trainings
Through our work we have created real change in the lives of Ugandan refugee women. These women are not just benefiting from these programs but also transforming their communities.
Florence Amony Baraga: Overcoming Fear to Lead
Growing up in a patriarchal community, Florence was told that women could not lead men. This belief held her back, making her hesitant to speak in public or make independent decisions.
After receiving civic education training from FRC, Florence found her voice.
“I used to rely on my husband’s decisions. Now, I confidently make my own choices—both at home and in the community.”
Florence now serves as Vice Chairperson of a Ugandan School Board, a Para-Social Worker, and Chairperson of a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA). She is not just leading; she is inspiring others to step forward.
Candia Mary Magdalene: Breaking Barriers in Leadership
As a Refugee Welfare Committee Chairperson, Candia faced resistance. Many questioned her authority simply because she was a woman.
“Previously, men and even women would undermine me. But this training [training received from FRC] gave me conflict resolution skills and confidence. Now, people trust me to mediate disputes and provide guidance.”
The journey of Candia highlights what we know to be true: when women lead, entire communities benefit.
Forcibly Displaced Women Face Several Barriers
Despite their resilience, refugee women continue to face structural barriers that hinder their progress not just in Uganda, but globally.
- Limited Leadership Opportunities: According to UNHCR, women make up 41% of refugee leaders. The reality is that many of them hold less influential roles, with men dominating key decision-making positions.
- Economic and Educational Barriers: Women are disproportionately affected by poverty in crisis-affected areas. In addition to this, only 63% of refugee girls enrolled in primary school—and far fewer make it to secondary education.
- Gender-Based Violence (GBV): An estimated one in five women in displacement settings experience sexual violence. Many of these women face stigma and have limited access to justice.
Through our work in Uganda we aim at dismantling these barriers and creating an environment where women can lead, earn, and live free from violence.
Aiming For A Future Where Women Shape Their Own Destinies
We believe that true refugee self-reliance is only possible when women have equal power in decision-making, economic opportunities, and leadership.
Through our programs, women gain not just skills, but also the confidence, connections, and platforms to use them. Women that have participated in our trainings are:
- Leading local governance structures.
- Starting businesses that support their families.
- Advocating for the rights of others.
Our accomplishments tell us that we are on the right path. Our work in Uganda and in other countries continues until equality is no longer a privilege, but a right. Read more about our work in Uganda here.