Intersectional Inequalities and Educational Barriers for Young Syrian Refugee Women Preparing for Higher Education

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 4:15 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Intersectional Racializations, Gendering, and Caste Across Schooling Contexts

Abstract

This research investigates the compounded barriers faced by young Syrian refugee women in pursuing higher education, focusing on the intersections of gender, refugee background, and socioeconomic challenges. Adopting a qualitative design grounded in intersectionality, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 32 participants. Through thematic analysis, the study uncovered recurring themes in their lived experiences. Thematic analysis revealed that participants experience layered disadvantages linked to restrictive gender norms, economic precarity, and displacement. These overlapping factors complicate their educational journeys and increase their vulnerability. The findings highlight the importance of developing comprehensive, equity-focused educational policies tailored to marginalized refugee women.

Author

• Emre Arslan, Ankara University