ISLAMABAD, Aug 6 (APP):Coordinator to the Prime Minister (PM) on Climate Change, Ro
mina Khurshid Alam emphasized the importance of promoting gender equality and ensuring active participation of women and girls in all stages of d
isaster risk reduction (DRR).
She stated that this is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of DRR strategies and for contributing to resilient communities in d
isaster-prone countries like Pakistan.
Addressing as chief guest here on Tuesday at a national dialogue on ‘Role of Women and Girls in D
isaster Risk Reduction’, the PM’s climate aide highlighted that women, particularly those from rural or marginalised communities, hold invaluable local knowledge about environmental conditions, traditional practices and risk management. However, she said that their leadership in these areas not only can help improve d
isaster management strategies but also fosters a more comprehensive understanding of community needs and vulnerabilities.
The day-long event was organised by the National D
isaster Management Authority, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination in collaboration with international partner organizations involved in d
isaster risk reduction activities in the country.
The PM’s Coordinator told the participants of the event that as the world grapples with increasing frequency and intensity of natural d
isasters, it has become clear that women and girls are not just beneficiaries but pivotal players in DRR. She said that their unique contributions are essential for building resilient communities and ensuring effective d
isaster preparedness and response.
To fully utilize the potential of women and girls in d
isaster risk reduction, Ro
mina Khurshid emphasized the importance of increasing their involvement in decision-making and policy implementation at all levels. Additionally, she stressed the need to support and finance women-led d
isaster risk reduction initiatives and organizations, promote gender-sensitive approaches in d
isaster management policies and practices, and ensure that women and girls have access to education and training related to d
isaster preparedness and response.
“The present government is highly concerned over the sufferance of the communities, which are frequently affected by climate change-caused d
isasters, particularly smallholder farming and marginalized communities with poor resources for post-d
isaster recovery and committed to building d
isaster resilience of them by providing them necessary knowledge, skill and resources,” Ro
mina Khurshid Alam informed the participants.
She remarked that women and girls often serve as the backbone of their communities, particularly during d
isasters, particularly floods, cyclones and heatwaves. “When empowered with knowledge, technical and financial resources, they could play a central role in managing household preparedness, disseminating risk information and providing critical support systems”, he said.
Their involvement in d
isaster risk reduction initiatives could also enhance community resilience and ensures that d
isaster management strategies are both inclusive and effective, Ro
mina Khurshid Alam added.
The PM’s aide said further that recent case studies have demonstrated the significant impact of women-led initiatives in d
isaster scenarios.
From grassroots organizations in various d
isaster-vulnerable countries to community-based programs in [another region], women have proven their capacity to drive positive change, enhance risk communication, and support long-term recovery processes, she added.
“Empowering women and girls in DRR efforts can lead to innovative solutions and more responsive policies. Women’s involvement in policy-making and advocacy ensures that d
isaster management approaches address the diverse needs of all community members, promoting greater equity and effectiveness in recovery efforts,” she said.
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