We commissioned a young student researcher to investigate the barriers faced by many Muslim migrants.
The findings, based on interviews with 300 women, were striking. Please read the abstract below or download the full paper.
Abstract
Muslim women in Ireland experience unique challenges shaped by the intersection of gender, religion, and minority identity. While Ireland has grown increasingly diverse, systematic quantitative evidence of their experiences remains scarce.
This study identified common struggles faced by Muslim women in Ireland, examined demographic differences, and assessed beneficial support forms.
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Muslim women in Ireland. Stratified and convenience sampling methods were used, with questions on demographics, discrimination experiences, social inclusion, and support needs. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted using RStudio.
Results revealed high discrimination levels across multiple domains. Younger participants more frequently reported school and university discrimination, while older participants faced higher workplace discrimination rates.
Women wearing visible attire (hijab or niqab) were significantly more likely to report discrimination and social exclusion. Rural participants described greater difficulty accessing culturally sensitive healthcare than urban residents.
Despite its modest sample size, this study provides important insights into Muslim women's struggles in Ireland, highlighting systemic inequities and the urgent need for policy responses, workplace training, and culturally sensitive community support initiatives.