Listening to the Voices of Syrian Refugee Women in Canada: an Ethnographic Insight into the Journey from Trauma to Adaptation

Syrian refugee women face many obstacles when accessing health services in host countries that are influenced by various cultural, structural, and practical factors. This paper is based on critical ethnographic research undertaken in Canada, to explore Syrian refugee women migration experiences. Also, we aim at critically examining how the intersection of gender, trauma, and violence, and the political and economic conditions of Syrian refugee women shapes their everyday lives and health. The study also investigates the strategies and practices by which Syrian refugee women are currently addressing their healthcare needs and the models of care that are suggested for meeting their physical and mental health needs. Findings show that these women experienced constant worries, hardship, vulnerability, and intrusion of dignity. These experiences and challenges were aggravated by the structure of the Canadian social and healthcare system. This study offers a better understanding of the impact of migration and trauma on Syrian refugee women’s roles, responsibilities, gender dynamics, and interaction with Ontario’s healthcare system to improve interaction and outcomes. Healthcare models should address these challenges among Syrian refugee families in Canada.