Her Rights, Her Justice: Rohingya Women in Bangladesh Are Reclaiming Protection Through Action

When Yasmin* decided to seek help, she was not certain justice would be possible. What she knew was that the violence in her home could no longer be ignored.

Yasmin, 26, lives in the Rohingya refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar. Years of displacement, economic hardship and entrenched gender norms had shaped her life. Tensions escalated when her husband demanded jewellery that belonged to her. When she refused, he assaulted her and, with the involvement of family members, took it by force.

The violence left her injured and shaken. It also left her questioning whether anyone would stand beside her.

She remembered a conversation with women outreach volunteers who regularly visited her block, speaking with families about services available for women facing violence. They had explained that confidential support was available at the Women and Girls Safe Space. The following day, Yasmin sought support at a Women and Girls Safe Space she had heard about through the outreach teams.

The centre is implemented by the International Rescue Committee and supported technically and financially by UNFPA, with funding from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. At the safe space, Yasmin met Afia Jahin Shathi, a trained GBV caseworker who worked in the camps for six years. 

Afia had learned to speak the Rohingya language and underwent UNFPA-supported training in GBV case management, psychosocial care, referral pathways and the GBV Information Management System preparing her for the role of a case worker.

“Many women first ask whether the violence they experience is normal,” Afia explains. “Our role is to ensure they understand their rights and that every decision is theirs.”

Afia conducted a structured assessment to understand Yasmin’s medical, emotional and safety needs. With Yasmin’s consent, she referred her to a primary health care centre for medical treatment. No referral was made without her agreement. At each step, Afia explained available options, possible outcomes and potential risks.