Impact of UNHCR's community based outreach for interventions on Afghan Refugee women; A case study of Refugee Outreach volunteers in Refugee village of Saranan and Refugee settlement of Hazara Town And Ghusabad, Balochistan

Abstract

This study examines UNHCR’s community-based outreach interventions for Afghan refugee women in Saranan, Hazara Town, and Ghusabad, Balochistan, with a specific focus on the role and effectiveness of Refugee Outreach Volunteers (ROVs). Using a qualitative research design, primary data were collected through a question guide via six in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions conducted with Afghan refugee women and female outreach volunteers. The study explores how ROVs facilitate information dissemination, access to essential services, and community cohesion within refugee settlements. The findings indicate that ROVs play a critical role in improving refugee women’s access to healthcare, education, legal assistance, and psychosocial support, while also strengthening trust and community engagement. However, the study also identifies limitations related to delayed service delivery, insufficient health and educational facilities, and financial constraints faced by both refugee women and volunteers. UNHCR partners, including DANESH and WESS, were found to be central to program implementation in the study areas. The study highlights the need for strengthening outreach mechanisms through timely responses, skill development opportunities, and additional support for volunteers to enhance the effectiveness of community-based outreach interventions.