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Publication

The role of the healthcare sector in the prevention of sexual violence against sub-Saharan transmigrants in Morocco

Journal Contribution - Journal Article

Subtitle:a study of knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers

BACKGROUND: Sub-Saharan transmigrants in Morocco are extremely vulnerable to sexual violence. From a public health perspective, the healthcare system is globally considered an important partner in the prevention of sexual violence. The aim of this study is twofold. In a first phase, we aimed to identify the current role and position of the Moroccan healthcare sector in the prevention of sexual violence against sub-Saharan transmigrants. In a second phase, we wanted these results and available guidelines to be the topic of a participatory process with local stakeholders in order to formulate recommendations for a more desirable prevention of sexual violence against sub-Saharan transmigrants by the Moroccan healthcare sector.

METHODS: Knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers in Morocco concerning sexual violence against sub-Saharan transmigrants and its prevention were firstly explored in semi-structured interviews after which they were discussed in a participatory process resulting in the formulation of recommendations.

RESULTS: All participants (n=24) acknowledged the need for desirable prevention of sexual violence against transmigrants. Furthermore, important barriers in tertiary prevention practices, i.e. psychosocial and judicial referral and long-term follow-up, and in secondary prevention attitudes, i.e. active identification of victims were identified. Moreover, existing services for Moroccan victims of sexual violence currently do not address the sub-Saharan population. Thus, transmigrants are bound to rely on the aid of civil society.

CONCLUSIONS: This research demonstrates the low accessibility of existing Moroccan services for sub-Saharan migrants. In particular, there is an absence of prevention initiatives addressing sexual violence against the sub-Saharan transmigrant population. Although healthcare workers do wish to develop prevention initiatives, they are dealing with structural difficulties and a lack of expertise. Recommendations adapted to the context of sub-Saharan transmigrants in Morocco are suggested.

Journal: BMC Health Serv. Res.
ISSN: 1472-6963
Volume: 13
Publication year:2013
Keywords:Adolescent, Adult, Female, Health Care Sector, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Health Personnel/psychology, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Morocco, Primary Prevention, Professional Role, Qualitative Research, Secondary Prevention, Sex Offenses/prevention & control, Transients and Migrants, Young Adult