The Dowan Initiative conducted its eighth session on Sunday, August 25, 2024, with 18 participants, focusing on training related to sexual health and rights. Photo credit: Kamar Ghoson/Oxfam.
Access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is essential for everyone, but for individuals like Marcella (not her real name), a migrant worker in Lebanon, it can be life changing. Previously without access to crucial information, Marcella and her community are now equipped to protect themselves and make informed decisions about their health.
This transformation is driven by the Masarouna project in Lebanon, which provides informal groups with Group Cash Transfers (GCT). These funds enable the groups to launch initiatives that raise awareness about SRHR and create safe spaces for young people. Through the GCT, these informal groups are reaching vulnerable people of the community, raising awareness about SRHR and gender justice in ways that are sensitive to their specific needs and context.
One such initiative is led by DOWAN, an informal group of migrant women in Lebanon. Their program focuses on educating migrant workers from various nationalities, many of whom face challenging living conditions and limited access to SRHR resources.
The program targets migrant girls and women aged 15 to 35, offering 12 sessions on a range of SRHR topics, including sexual abuse and exploitation, gender-based violence, consent, and menstrual health.
Marcella, a 17-year-old from Sierra Leone, is a testament to the program’s impact. “This is the first time I've learned about my body, and I was amazed,” Marcella shares. “I came to this training with my older sister, who I live with here in Lebanon. Even though she didn’t know this information—we never had the opportunity to attend such trainings back home.”
Living in the Dora area with her sister, Marcella arrived in Lebanon about two years ago. She discovered the course through her sister's friends. “I’ve learned how to take care of my personal hygiene, the health of my body, and how to protect myself from diseases.” she explains, her voice filled with newfound confidence.
"This is the first time I've learned about my body, and I was amazed,I came to this training with my older sister, who I live with here in Lebanon. Even though she didn’t know this information—we never had the opportunity to attend such trainings back home.”
The SRHR sessions not only expand migrant workers' knowledge but also build their confidence, helping them make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships while reducing their vulnerability to harassment and abuse.
“I feel stronger now because I understand my body and know how to protect myself. I know my rights, and I’ve made friends with whom I can share information and concerns.” Marcella told Oxfam.
This initiative highlights the profound impact of targeted, context-sensitive interventions on vulnerable communities. By establishing a strong foundation of awareness and education, these programs are not only improving individual lives but also laying the groundwork for broader social and systemic change. Increased SRHR knowledge among migrant workers can drive advocacy for policy changes and enhancements in SRHR services, benefiting the entire community.