The Legal Protection of Internally Displaced Women from Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Ethiopia

Abstract

Conflicts and violence have continued to result in a substantial number of internally displaced persons in Ethiopia. Even though an attempt has been made to respond to internal displacement, the protection offered to IDPs, particularly for women, is limited to life-saving assistance. Internally displaced women are more vulnerable to and highly impacted by the consequences of conflict. This study doctrinally examines whether the legislative measures taken by the government are adequate and compatible with international and regional instruments to protect IDP women from sexual and gender-based violence. The study establishes that there is inadequacy of laws and policies framework to respond to sexual and gender-based violence against internally displaced women in Ethiopia, becoming a major challenge to offer them comprehensive protection.