Mobile technology targeting GBV among Syrian adolescent refugees
Project overview
WAHA in collaboration with its partner organisations is conducting formative research to develop and test an innovative SMS-based tool to disseminate information about GBV risks and available resources for adolescents and youth in Izmir, Turkey.
Project solution
This project offers [specific solution or intervention] to tackle [challenge]. By implementing [strategies, tools, or innovations], the project aims to achieve [desired outcomes]. The approach is designed to [specific actions or methods] to bring about meaningful change in [community, region, or issue area].
Expected outcomes
This project aims to achieve [specific outcomes], such as [measurable results, improvements, or changes]. The expected impact includes [benefits to the target community, advancements in research or innovation, or long-term effects]. By the end of the project, we anticipate [specific changes or milestones] that will contribute to [broader goals or objectives].
What is the humanitarian need?
The protracted crisis in Syria has resulted in mass displacement. Turkey is hosting more than 2 million refugees, mostly women and children. During humanitarian crises, women and children are at risk of gender-based violence (GBV).
Adolescent and youth refugees experience increased risks of GBV, particularly early marriage and sexual exploitation; however, there are fewer programs targeting adolescents and youth.
This study aims to increase evidence on GBV risks among Syrian adolescent and youth refugees in Izmir, Turkey, and develop innovative GBV prevention and response tools for this at-risk population.
What is the innovative solution?
Mobile phones are ubiquitous among the displaced Syrian population and are a primary means of communication. Assessments in other countries hosting Syrian refugees have revealed a lack of information, awareness and access to specialized GBV services. Mobile phones may facilitate information sharing and communication about GBV risks for this at-risk refugee population.
An innovative mobile tool will be developed and tested using RapidPro, an open source communication platform, to disseminate SMS messages with information about GBV risks and available services for at-risk adolescents and youth refugees in Izmir, Turkey. This tool will aim to increase access to essential information and connect the refugee population to existing GBV prevention and response services.
What are the expected outcomes?
The qualitative research methods will provide data on mobile phone use and GBV risks for Syrian refugee adolescents and youth. The development and piloting of the mobile phone-based technology will raise awareness of available GBV services for adolescent and youth refugees living in Izmir, Turkey and strengthen referral networks.
Upon completion of the research, the evidence base relating to GBV risks in the refugee community will be strengthened and a report with main findings will be disseminated among study partners and key stakeholders.
This research aims to inform policy and programming for GBV prevention and response among the Syrian refugee population living in Izmir, Turkey, but may also be relevant for other countries hosting Syrian refugees in the region.
Project delivery & updates
Stay up to date with the latest developments from this project. Here, you will find details on what has been delivered, resources created, and regular updates as the project progresses. Access key documents, reports, and other materials to see how the project is making an impact.
Resources
Journal article
LEARN MORE