Unveiling Hidden Truths Methodological Challenges in Documenting Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Among Trafficked Persons and Refugees in Kenya

This paper critically examines the intersection of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV), Trafficking in Persons (TiP), and refugee vulnerability in Kenya, identifying some of the significant methodological and institutional challenges in researching these intertwined crises. The article, through a comprehensive review of existing literature and an analysis of the gaps in current research methodologies, finds that institutional blindness within both refugee support organisations and anti-trafficking agencies has resulted in a fragmented understanding of the complex vulnerabilities faced by trafficked refugees who have experienced CRSV. While many organisations focus primarily on immediate needs like food and shelter, they often overlook the more complex needs arising from the broad spectrum of violence and exploitation faced by refugees they seek to assist. The paper highlights the limitations of existing research methodologies, which tend to be overly generalised and fail to capture the specific experiences of CRSV and trafficking survivors. These tools often do not account for the distinct forms of exploitation encountered in conflict settings, leading to underreporting and incomplete data, which in turn impedes the development of effective interventions and policies designed to protect and support refugees who are survivors of both trafficking and CRSV. This paper underscores the need for more inclusive, trauma-informed, and context-specific approaches to data collection. It calls for the integration of CRSV and trafficking concerns into refugee policies and frameworks to better address the vulnerabilities that persist among these populations. By examining the nexus between CRSV, trafficking, and forced migration, this paper contributes to the growing scholarship on these interconnected issues.