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Amplifying Migrant Women’s Voices: Our Partnership with Migrant Women Press

This 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we partnered with Migrant Women Press to bring to light stories that are too often overlooked in mainstream media - the experiences of migrant and ethnically diverse women facing men’s violence.

The campaign published thoughtful reporting exploring different aspects of gender-based violence through an intersectional lens. The series examined how immigration status can be weaponised as a tool of coercive control, the impact of language barriers when seeking support services, and workplace exploitation and abuse - particularly highlighting the vulnerabilities created by precarious immigration status and economic dependence.

The series features first-hand accounts of women navigating the justice system and seeking support whilst facing multiple barriers. These personal stories are accompanied by research into service provision gaps and the specific challenges created by policies such as No Recourse to Public Funds. This journalism explores the complex intersection of racism and gender-based violence, sharing insights from women who’ve experienced both systemic racism and domestic abuse.

Our co-director Rachel Adamson explains: “We must listen to migrant and minority ethnic women’s experiences if we are to end men’s violence against all women. Migrant Women Press provides a vital platform for migrant and ethnically diverse women to share their stories of men’s violence, too often missing from mainstream media.”

The project went beyond publishing stories. Throughout the 16 Days campaign we ran specialist training for participating journalists in trauma-informed reporting and responsible coverage of gender-based violence. This investment in skilled storytellers from migrant and ethnically diverse backgrounds helps ensure these crucial perspectives continue to be heard.

Throughout the series are stories of community-led support initiatives and specialist services that are making a difference. These articles look at various approaches to supporting migrant and ethnically diverse women experiencing men’s violence, sharing what works and highlighting good practice.

Each article includes information about support services for women who might be affected by these issues, alongside guidance for professionals and policymakers on how to better support migrant and ethnically diverse women experiencing men’s violence.

Want to learn more about this initiative or get involved? Visit Migrant Women Press’s website or get in touch with Campaigns and Engagement Officer Jo Zawadzka on jo.zawadzka@zerotolerance.org.uk

Together, we can work towards a Scotland where all women live free from men’s violence.