We prepare for and respond rapidly and at scale to sudden onset natural disasters, protracted and complex crises, and public health emergencies by applying safe, conflict-sensitive, high-quality, gender-responsive, intersectional, inclusive, and increasingly locally led, locally-tailored, and globally-connected. The following are key program priorities:
During crises, gender-based violence (GBV) increases due to multiple risk factors and exacerbated gender inequalities. Our approach to address GBV includes inclusive measures in all programming, shifting patriarchal norms, creating safe spaces, providing gender-sensitive healthcare, involving men and boys, and advocating for changes in humanitarian processes. Women and girls’ leadership is prioritized in their Women’s Leadership in emergencies programming.
We work to address shelter needs in emergencies through a holistic approach that goes beyond construction. The program focuses on gender equality, disaster risk reduction, accountability, health, well-being, and livelihoods. We prioritize community-led, self-recovery processes and rebuilding safer homes to enhance long-term resilience. With our partners, we provide assistance and supports reflecting on the main needs from impacted communities. We prioritize empowering women and girls who may spend significant time at home.
We prioritize the provision of integrated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) packages to ensure the safety and dignity of vulnerable communities. Our WASH packages include secure bathing spaces, hygiene supplies, private toilets, and safe water access to protect displaced individuals, particularly women and girls. Our interventions encompass various measures such as water trucking, on-site water treatment, household treatment and storage, construction of latrines and baths, hygiene promotion through trained volunteers, and distribution of essential hygiene supplies. Providing water and sanitation facilities alone is insufficient without educating communities on preventing water and sanitation-related diseases. With our partners, we strive to implement longer-term sustainable solutions in collaboration with the community whenever possible.
During humanitarian crises caused by natural disasters or conflicts, our priority is to provide life-saving nutrition and assistance to those facing food insecurity. We focus on improving access to food and livelihood support for the most vulnerable individuals, through immediate life-saving and early recovery efforts. Our activities also include agricultural support (such as providing seeds and tools) and economic support (such as business development, savings, wage labor, and life skills training for employment) that address the specific needs and risks of people of all genders. Additionally, we work to strengthen markets as part of our livelihood recovery efforts.
We tackle pandemics like COVID-19 by addressing the challenges faced by communities already affected by poverty, conflict, and climate issues. Our approach focuses on improving healthcare access and addressing food insecurity and hunger crises worsened by the pandemic. We prioritize combating gender-based violence, with 90% of our efforts dedicated to this issue. In areas with limited healthcare infrastructure, we provide training for health workers and distribute essential supplies like food, water, medication, disinfectants, and protective gear.
