Perceptions of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Among Forcibly Displaced Populations in Chad: An Analysis of Women's Specific Vulnerabilities

Abstract

Chad and its neighboring countries are facing a complex humanitarian crisis characterized by massive population displacement due to armed conflicts, intercommunal violence, and climate shocks. In 2023, Chad hosted over one million forcibly displaced persons, including 712,000 refugees and 400,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs). These populations, particularly women and girls, experience GBV at a significantly high rate of approximately 40% affected. Given the fragility of protection mechanisms and cultural barriers, this study addresses the urgent need to understand GBV perceptions in order to design responses tailored to local realities. The research analyzes sociodemographic and geospatial factors that may influence the GBV acceptance among forcibly displaced populations in Chad. By examining the role of migratory status, gender, access to services, and geographic location, the study seeks to capture how GBV is perceived to inform decision-making in future humanitarian interventions. The methodological approach employs a mixed-methods design (quantitative and qualitative). Quantitative analysis is based on a dataset of 5,409 individuals from the 2024 RMS Chad survey. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations between variables. The qualitative component draws on individual and group interviews conducted with key informants during the same survey. Thematic analysis of interviews helped uncover the underlying cultural and social dimensions. Findings reveal that acceptance of GBV among forcibly displaced persons in Chad is shaped by complex dynamics where migratory status, local integration, and social norms interact. The study also highlights the need for differentiated interventions combining strengthened protection for vulnerable groups with transformation of patriarchal norms, beyond simple material approaches. These results call for rethinking humanitarian strategies in displacement contexts.