In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the presence of women in civil protection at the global level. This change reflects the growing recognition of the value that women bring to these key roles, not only as first responders but also as leaders in crisis management and post-disaster recovery. Women have proven to be exceptional agents of change, bringing unique perspectives and essential skills to emergency operations and decision-making processes. Their presence not only improves immediate emergency response, but also contributes to more inclusive and responsive planning for diverse communities, especially in complex cultural and social contexts.
Experiences from the field: Stories of women’s resilience
From Nepal to Ukraine, women face incredible challenges in their civil protection roles. In Nepal, an EU-funded initiative teaches women, who are often the first responders to house fires, how to fight flames before they spread, thus protecting entire communities. This training not only improves emergency response capabilities, but also strengthens women’s roles as community leaders. In Ukraine, women have been at the forefront of rebuilding their homes and communities, showing remarkable resilience in the face of the enormous difficulties and dangers caused by the war. These experiences highlight the courage and determination of women in overcoming obstacles and actively contributing to the recovery of their communities.
Women in peacekeeping missions
In peacekeeping missions, women also had a significant impact. For example, African peacekeeping forces have been praised for their indispensable role in supporting peace and security in communities transitioning from conflict to peace. These women not only provide security, but also serve as positive role models and promote gender equality in peacekeeping operations. Their approach is often focused on listening and mediation which helps build bridges of trust between different parties that can be critical to the success of peacekeeping missions. In addition, their presence helps mitigate the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, providing a safer and more comfortable environment for women and girls in conflict areas.
Towards a fairer and safer future
As women continue to break down barriers in these traditionally male-dominated roles, it is critical to continue to support and promote their active participation. Their participation not only improves the effectiveness of emergency aid and peacekeeping operations, but also contributes to building more resilient and inclusive societies. The road to gender equality in civil protection is still long, but progress so far offers hope and inspiration for a fairer and safer future. Promoting gender equality in these sectors is crucial not only for women’s rights but also for sustainable development and lasting peace. Investing in women’s capabilities, recognizing their contributions and ensuring their full and meaningful participation in all aspects of civil protection and emergency management is a fundamental step towards a more just and resilient society.
Source: emergency-live.com
Photo: Goricev Eduard (credit: 123RF)
