Citation

Olsen OE, Scharffscher KS. Int. J. Hum. Right 2004; 8(4): 377-397.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Frank Cass & Co. Ltd.)

DOI

10.1080/1364298042000283558

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) in refugee camps is analysed by using mainstream theories of risk and safety management derived from studies of accidents in technological production systems. We use theory of organisational accidents and man-made disasters to explain the mutual linkages between latent conditions for GBV embedded in the structures of humanitarian organisations, and assaults occurring in the camps. Furthermore, safety management theory is applied to explain how organisational preconditions for GBV may develop unnoticed in humanitarian organisations and ultimately contribute to the perpetuated vulnerability of refugee women. The analysis is based on a study undertaken in Sierra Leone.