A perspective on S4.5 Residence Category for Victims of Domestic Violence (VDV) Policy : addressing domestic violence against ‘ethnic’ women

Abstract

This presentation will focus on S4.5 Residence Category for victims of violence (Operational Manual - Immigration New Zealand), in the context of intimate partner violence experienced by women of migrant and refugee background. Research shows that migrant and refugee background women face multiple challenges, including intimate partner violence. The lives of these women are compounded by factors tied to ethnic minority status, immigration status and processes, gender inequality and class marginalisation. The policy was introduced in response to a finding that legal issues connected to immigration status frequently extend migrant and refugee women's vulnerability once in violent relationships. It is argued in the presentation that while the policy ensures that women can have greater legal protection from perpetrators of violence, it is still problematic. Specifically, not all refugee and migrant background women are aware of this policy, will see themselves in a position to make best use of it, and/or cannot provide the required evidence. The challenges are discussed in the presentation.

Background Why are their experiences unique? Intersecting factors. S4.5 Residence Category for victims of domestic violence (VDV) Policy Policy Provisions and requirements Can this policy protect ‘ethnic’ women? What next? Recommendations. References