Refugee Mothers Raising Children Born of Sexual Violence in Dutch Society

Abstract

The physical and psychological repercussions of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) against women are long-lasting and far-reaching, and it is by no accident that CRSV is now widely referred to as a “weapon of war.” Many women conceive a child as a result of CRSV, but due to long-standing customs and traditions in some conservative societies surrounding gender roles and sexuality, these mothers and children are highly stigmatized. Often in these situations, fleeing is the only option for them. Countries such as the Netherlands that host asylum seekers and refugees and provide psychological support are faced with the challenging task of addressing the intricate needs of mothers and children born of sexual violence. This chapter discusses the victimhood of these dyads, the challenges they face, and future directions for providing optimal care and treatment.