Intersectional Barriers Faced by Urban Somali Refugee Girls in Uganda

in Girlhood Studies
Author:
Manya Kagan Researcher, University of Pennsylvania, USA manyakagan@gmail.com

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6046-9754
and
Winnie Nakatudde Founder, Atudde Foundation nakatuddewinnie2020@gmail.com

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https://orcid.org/0009-0001-7273-1780
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3167/ghs.2024.170108
Keywords:
constant comparative analysis; discrimination; ethnicity; education; host society; integration; refugee
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Abstract

We based this article on a qualitative study that focuses on barriers to the integration of Somali Muslim urban refugee girls in Uganda. We were interested in how different ethnic and gender identities influence Somali refugee girls’ access to education and participation in society. Based on 75 semi-structured interviews with refugee children between 10 and 16 years of age in Kampala, we used constant comparative analysis to explore the intersectional experiences of Somali refugee girls. We found that they face specific gender-based discrimination and temporal and spatial restraints. This plays a key role in their ability to integrate into society. We conclude that it is important to avoid homogenizing refugee children's experiences and to incorporate intersectional analysis in studying integration.

Contributor Notes

Manya Kagan (ORCID: 0000-0002-6046-9754), a sociologist of education studying urban migration and education, uses ethnography and geospatial methods. She is currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pennsylvania. Email: manyakagan@gmail.com

Winnie Nakatudde (ORCID: 0009-0001-7273-1780) is a professional teacher and development practitioner working on sustainable growth and development in Africa. She is the founder of Atudde Foundation. Email: nakatuddewinnie2020@gmail.com

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Girlhood Studies

An Interdisciplinary Journal

Cover Girlhood Studies
Article Category:
Research Article
Page Count:
17
Keywords:
constant comparative analysis; discrimination; ethnicity; education; host society; integration; refugee
Print Publication Date:
01 Mar 2024
Online Publication Date:
01 Mar 2024
Copyright:
© The Author(s) 2024

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