Women on the front lines: women's heroism and leadership in global emergencies
Positively impacting communities by increasing women’s participation
Importance of women’s participation
Women’s participation in emergencies is fundamental. Representing 50 percent of the population, women need to be involved in decision-making processes that affect their lives, especially in vulnerable settings such as humanitarian emergencies.
Overcoming male dominance
In emergency contexts traditionally dominated by men, it is essential to ensure that women’s needs and rights are not ignored or neglected. Women’s participation improves the quality of life not only of the women themselves, but of the entire community. One example was Hurricane Matthew in Haiti, where women played a crucial role in disaster response.
Empowerment and change
Women’s leadership can transform women’s lives by breaking down barriers and gender stereotypes and promoting women’s empowerment. It can improve inclusiveness in contexts where, all too often, discrimination is still a defended scourge.