INTERNATIONAL: In Situations of War and Displacement, Women's Voices Often Go Unheard and Their Specific Needs are Overlooked

“In situations of war and displacement, women's voices often go unheard and their specific needs are overlooked. The stereotype of women as passive beneficiaries can result in their being excluded from decisions that affect them directly,” said Nadine Puechguirbal, the ICRC's adviser on issues relating to women and war, APA reports. Women displaced by war should be given a greater voice in decisions directly affecting their future, especially those taken by humanitarian organizations and others helping internally displaced people (IDPs).

“In the run-up to International Women's Day on 8 March, the ICRC is drawing attention to the extraordinary strength and resilience of millions of women displaced by armed conflicts worldwide. Failure to consult women about their needs and how best to address them diminishes the quality and efficiency of the aid provided. Women displaced by armed conflict – often living alone with their children – are frequently exposed to sexual violence, discrimination and intimidation. Many face poverty and social exclusion as well. International humanitarian law therefore includes specific provisions protecting women, for example when they are pregnant or as mothers of young children. Far too often, women are victims of horrific violence and cruelty in times of war. But this is not the whole story. Many women also show remarkable grit and determination in coping with their problems, and build new lives for themselves and their families.”