The World Health Organization office in Afghanistan has stated that natural disasters do not affect all people equally, and that women and children are the biggest victims of these events.
The organization wrote on its X page that at least 70 to 80 percent of people in need of emergency assistance are women and children. It also said that nearly 75 percent of those displaced by natural disasters are women and children.
The World Health Organization stated that these figures show that natural disasters have an unequal impact on different groups of society, and therefore women and children should be prioritized in relief and support efforts.
The published statement emphasized that the needs of affected women and children including protection, psychological care, and practical support must urgently become part of humanitarian assistance programs.
The organization added that during the distribution of aid, special attention must be given to the specific needs of women and children, including safe shelter, healthcare services, nutritional support, and protection mechanisms.
It was also stated that data collection and assessments should be carried out based on gender and age so that aid can be delivered accurately and effectively to those in need.
Human rights organizations also say that women and girls face greater risks during natural disasters and displacement because limited access to services, poor shelter conditions, and the threat of violence create serious challenges for them.
Women’s rights activists warn that if emergency response plans do not systematically consider the needs of women and children, the effectiveness of aid will decrease and the risks faced by vulnerable groups will further increase.
These remarks come as recent floods and earthquakes in different provinces of Afghanistan have caused heavy financial and human losses, and according to reports, women and children have suffered the most.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
