Women Refugees in the 21st Century Refugees face government unrest, political prosecutions, and natural disasters; however, women are further burdened by their female status, biological functions, and lack of attention to the needs of women in refugee camps. Refugee women bear emotional and often physical scars from trying to escape oppressive situations. They are forced to leave, to face death or perhaps something worse. They may still find these horrors, but they will risk that unknown for a chance at a different life. The first stop on this arduous journey is often a refugee camp. Here, if they are lucky, they receive basic necessities such as food and shelter. During a presentation by the International Rescue Committee, a group that helps refugees, my fear that women's needs are not being met was confirmed. The IRC spokesperson said: "Women are sometimes provided with information on birth control, AIDS prevention and family planning, but it depends on the country." I find it hard to imagine that something as obvious as birth control would hardly be considered either ...