PHNOM PENH: UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, has procured 1,000 dignity kits to be distributed to those affected by floods, typhoons, droughts, or other natural disasters, as well as survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) in Cambodia.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, this proactive step by UNFPA to safeguard the well-being of most-at-risk women and girls is in response to forecasts of heightened flood risks and the potential for other natural disasters in Cambodia, said the agency’s press release AKP received this morning.
This initiative follows a joint assessment by the Humanitarian Response Forum, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, and the National Disaster Management Committee (NCDM), which predicts above-average rainfall and an increased risk of flooding from September to November 2024, continued the source, adding that this assessment also acknowledges the potential for other natural disasters to occur during this period, further increasing the vuln
erability of women and girls.
According to UNFPA, dignity kits are designed to meet the unique needs of women and girls in crisis situations. Each kit contains essential hygiene supplies, clothing, and vital information on sexual and reproductive health and rights and GBV support services. These kits play a crucial role in helping women and girls maintain their dignity, safety, and well-being during emergencies.
UNFPA is collaborating with key partners to ensure efficient and targeted distribution of the dignity kits:
– Cambodian Red Cross (CRC): 600 kits will be distributed through the CRC’s extensive network, reaching even the most remote communities affected by natural disasters.
– Provincial Departments of Women’s Affairs (PDoWA): 300 kits will be provided to PDoWA offices in Kampong Cham, Thbong Khmum, Preah Vihear, and Stung Treng provinces to support GBV survivors, particularly those who may be further impacted by natural disasters.
– Cambodian Women for Peace and Development (CWPD): 100 kits will
be provided to CWPD to support vulnerable female entertainment workers who may be disproportionately affected by the economic and social consequences of natural disasters.
‘During emergencies, women and girls are at greater risk of to violence and abuse, while at the same time, they have greater difficulty accessing essential services,’ stated Ms. Sandra Bernklau, UNFPA Cambodia Representative. ‘Dignity kits help women and girls at a time when they are the most vulnerable – they provide a few essential supplies to help them during these difficult periods.’
This preparedness measure reinforces UNFPA’s ongoing commitment to addressing GBV and promoting SRHR in Cambodia, which includes supporting One-Stop Service Units (OSSUs) in four provinces. UNFPA will diligently monitor the distribution and impact of these dignity kits to ensure accountability and inform future programming.