Barriers to safe abortion care in internally displaced persons camps in Ethiopia: a qualitative study

Abstract

This qualitative study examines barriers to safe abortion care among women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Ethiopia using the Social Ecological Model (SEM). Data were collected through in-depth and key informant interviews with displaced women, healthcare providers, community leaders, NGO representatives, and policymakers. The findings reveal multi-level challenges, including personal and structural barriers, where cultural and religious beliefs, financial constraints, and limited education prevent women from access to safe abortion care. Social networks and healthcare providers play a critical role, with unsupportive partners and providers’ moral objections worsening the situation. Community stigma and social norms perpetuate misinformation and isolation, while societal barriers such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure and policy gaps further limit access. Urgent, coordinated action is critical. The Ministry of Health, humanitarian organizations, and local leaders must expand healthcare access, ensure legal protections, combat Sexual and Gender Based violence, and dismantle stigma. Without urgent intervention, displaced women will continue facing life-threatening risks.