Refugees fleeing to Europe are reportedly experiencing high levels of sexual abuse. Of all the Refugees fleeing to Europe this year, about 34% are women and children. These women and children are being put into situations where they are either sexually abused through force or in exchange for safe passage. Children who are travelling alone are put at an exceptionally larger risk due to the face they have no one to protect them which makes them easy targets. The U.N. refugee agency has appealed for increased measures of protection to ensure women and children have safe passage through Europe towards their destinations.
It’s the sad truth that in times of desperation people are taken advantage of, especially women and children. Although the UNRA hasn’t put specific measures into place yet, its important that these women and children don’t experience any more traumas in their life then they are already going through. I’m not sure what measure can be taken, especially in circumstances with smugglers, if refugees are using these illegal methods to get across Europe, it may be difficult to find a way to help them unless the UN offers affordable transportation.