Gender-Based Violence Against Migrant Women From Islamic Background: A Systematic Review of International Studies

Abstract

This systematic review examines gender-based violence experienced by migrant women from Islamic background, focusing on the types of violence, their health impact, and associated risk and protective factors. A comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, Medline, PubMed, and Dialnet, complemented by manual searches in Google Scholar, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Of the 332 studies identified, 25 met the inclusion criteria: quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies; full-text availability; studies addressing gender-based violence among migrant women from Islamic background; publications from 2004 to 2024; and studies published in English or Spanish. The mixed-methods appraisal tool was used to assess study quality. Results indicate that intimate partner violence was the most prevalent form, leading to severe physical and psychological consequences. Other forms of violence, such as female genital mutilation and forced marriage, were also reported. Risk and protective factors were identified across ecological levels. At the individual level, risk factors included language barriers and lack of awareness of support services, while spirituality and knowledge of rights were protective. At the microsystem level, the husband’s control over the woman’s life and economic dependence were risk factors, while concern for children and financial independence were protective. At the exosystem level, the negative role of religious leaders was a risk factor, while support from assistance services was protective. At the macrosystem level, cultural and religious norms that legitimize violence, along with the stigma surrounding divorce, were risk factors, whereas legislation against gender-based violence in host countries served as a protective factor.