Gender-based refugee status, border shielding and current challenges in the UE

Abstract

In recent times there have been numerous arrivals to the European Union  to seek refuge, since 2015 we have been experiencing an unparalleled humanitarian crisis. Although the number of refugee applications has decreased, the needs are greater and the refugee camps are in a situation of extreme vulnerability. The COVID-19 pandemic has blocked and suspended the acquisition of international protection procedures, violating the rights of refugees and in particular of women. The situation of women refugee claimants and access to gender-based protection status in the light of the principles of the 1951 Refugee Convention in times of health crisis needs to be examined with a descriptive and documentary methodology. At the same time, the EU’s response to refugee arrivals requires in-depth study. The non-fulfilment of quotas, the lack of the principle of solidarity and the absence of the principle of burden sharing undoubtedly lead to a lack of protection for asylum seekers, despite the fact that they meet the requirements established in international regulations for acquiring protection as refugees. An analysis will be carried out from a criminological-criminal point of view in order to identify the specific needs of women, the harmful consequences of traumatic events and the risks they face until they reach the host state.