Nigerian Women Seeking Asylum in England on grounds of Sexual Violence

Abstract

This study aims to give voice to the experiences of Nigerian women seeking asylum in the UK on the grounds of sexual violence. It draws upon in-depth narrative interviews with ten Nigerian women, aged between 27 to 46, seeking asylum on the grounds of sexual violence. Women’s accounts were analysed thematically, and the contextual factors that influenced the outcome of their asylum claim were explored. Findings show that women’s asylum application were affected by factors relating to lack of evidence; use of words and/or phrases that do not align with the English language meaning of sexual violence; Home Office’s lack of understanding of cultural issues specific to women; peculiarity of women’s narrative construction and the decommissioning of legal assistance. Findings also suggest that asylum organisations play a key role in providing holistic support to women. Recommendations are made for the Home Office’s policies following these findings.