Eight actions taken by the Red Cross network in the Americas to protect women and girls affected by crises and disasters

From vision to action: Promoting women’s leadership in the humanitarian sector in East Asia

From enhancing female representation at all levels to implementing family-friendly workplace policies, National Red Cross Societies in East Asiaare taking concrete action to fulfil the long-term vision of advancing gender equality and women’s leadership.To date, these efforts have yielded tangible progress across multiple areas.Increasing women's representation in leadershipThe East Asia National Societies are tracking data on women in leadership, working toward the goal of 50 per cent representation in governance and senior management positions.As of 2025,for example, women held more than 50 per cent of the seats on the governing board of the Mongolian Red Cross Society (MRCS). The MacauRed Cross (branchof the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC))has achieved50 per cent women in management positions.Implementing family-friendly practicesSeveral National Societies have introduced practices to support family responsibilities. For example, the Hong Kong Branch of the RCSC has implemented a work-from-home policy and flexible working arrangements. In 2025, the Republic of Korea National Red Cross (KNRC) received government certification for supporting work-life balance and gender equality.These practicesare applied to all employees, male and female, helping to transform traditional gender norms.Empowering women in the communitiesBeyond promoting gender equality in the workplace, engaging and empowering women in the community is another emphasis.The RCSC, jointly with Alibaba, initiated the “Model Mama” project, to provide skills training for disadvantaged women and support them in starting their own businessor getting employed. By the end of 2024, the project had trained more than 26,000people in 12 provinces across China.In 2025, the Hong Kong Branch of the RCSC launched the EmpowerHer Network, mobilizing women leaders from diverse backgrounds to join and contribute to the humanitarian cause.Fostering public advocacyPublic advocacy represents another focus.Two major events supported by the Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) in 2025 contributed to the efforts: a panel discussion hosted by GLOW Red (the global network for women leaders in the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement) at the 2025 World Expo Women’s Pavilion in Osaka, and the GLOW Red Annual Meeting in Tokyo.Both events served as powerful platforms to strengthen networks, share insights, and advance collective action toward gender equality.Reviewing the progress, Olga Dzhumaeva, Head of the IFRC East Asia Delegation, commented that, “Leadership support plays a crucial role in dismantling barriers and forging pathways for gender diversity and equality across every level of their organisations”.Since 2022, a dedicated session on gender diversity and women’s leadership has been included in the annual East Asia Five Plus Leaders Forum, a primary platform for East Asia National Society leaders to discuss regional humanitarian priorities. Further strengthening the coordinating mechanism, the National Societies designated gender focal points in June 2025.“We will strengthen cooperation with other global efforts and contribute to further promoting women’s leadership in the humanitarian sector,” said Bonnie So, Secretary General of the Hong Kong Branch of the RCSC and Chair of the East Asia Red Cross gender focal point group.Driven by the IFRC network’s Protection, Gender and Inclusion Policy as the core framework, these advancements in East Asia are supported and built on a robust global and regional roadmap.Dedicated targets for women's leadership were established through the Hanoi Call for Action, a set of commitments endorsed at the IFRC’s 11th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference in 2023.According to the IFRC Everyone Counts Report 2024, progress toward gender balance in governance remains slow and uneven across regions, but the Asia-Pacific region as a whole has shown incremental improvement. As of 2025, women held 37 percent of governance and leadership positions, up from 34 percent in 2024.For Alexander Matheou, IFRC Asia Pacific Regional Director, an important part of the solution lies in male allyship and institutions taking responsibility for change.“Talented female leaders have not always felt comfortable positioning themselves for promotion in very male-dominated organisations and men themselves haven’t always created the pathways for them to occupy the top positions,” he said . “Male leaders have a responsibility to create opportunities and ensure that female leaders can show their full potential.”Learn more about gender and inclusion in humanitarian actionProtection, Gender and Inclusion at the IFRCProtection and gender and inclusion in emergencies

Women supporting women: On International Women’s Day 2026, we tell the stories of women around the world helping shape a safer, more equal future for the next generation

Paraguay: Red Cross strengthens neonatal care to protect mothers and newborns

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, held each year, reminds us that the protection and well-being of women and children must be prioritised in all settings. This includes the right to access affordable, safe, quality healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth and the neonatal period.In Paraguay, the pioneering work of the Red Cross's Reina Sofía Hospital is a prime example of how investing in maternal and neonatal health can help to prevent gender-based violence.The Reina Sofía Hospital is a historic pillar of maternal and child health in Paraguay. It was the country's first premature care centre and the first to have neonatal intensive care. It receives pregnant women from all over the country and delivers around 2,200 babies each year, 8–10 per cent of whom are born prematurely.However, the neonatal unit had been working with minimal equipment and obsolete devices.Therefore, to improve infrastructure and technology, the Paraguayan Red Cross accessed the IFRC Capacity Building Fund, which enabled the complete remodelling of the inpatient rooms and the acquisition of two new ultrasound machines for the diagnostic area.These improvements will enhance the care provided to pregnant women, newborns and premature babies, minimising risks and ensuring safer, more protective environments.Yenny Benítez, president of the Paraguayan Red Cross, summarises the impact:“The Paraguayan Red Cross is proud to say that we are raising the standards of our hospital to provide better and better care for mothers and their children.”To prevent gender-based violence, mothers must also be protectedAccess to safe and respectful obstetric care is an essential component of preventing gender-based violence, especially obstetric violence.Thanks to an agreement signed with Paraguay's Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare, the neonatal therapy rooms have also been equipped with new ventilators, light therapy devices, and incubators. These improvements enable an adequate response to neonatal emergencies and protecting the lives of mothers and newborns, especially in cases of premature birth or respiratory complications.With almost 30 years of service at the institution, Head of Neonatology Dr. Marta Bareiro recalls the hospital's history:“This is a hospital with a long history of maternal and neonatal care. It used to be a premature baby ward, the first premature baby center in Paraguay. Later, it was also the first place to offer neonatal intensive care, and we were also the first hospital certified as mother- and child-friendly.”The center has intensive and intermediate care units, shared accommodation to strengthen the mother-infant bond, a clinic for healthy children, and specialized follow-up care for premature babies. It also promotes community first aid knowledge through trained volunteers from the Paraguayan Red Cross.Testimonials of protectionThe experiences of women treated at Reina Sofia Hospital demonstrate the importance of a safe environment and quality care in ensuring the emotional and physical well-being of mothers and newborns.Mirtha Alfonso, who gave birth in 1986, fondly recalls how her son was born:“He was born on 16 August 1986 here at the Red Cross. I was going to have a normal delivery, but it didn't work out, so I had a caesarean section. Then he went to intensive care. It wasn't so simple because the wards were full. Thankfully, though, one of the children was moved to intermediate care, so a crib became available.”Mirtha even donated breast milk to babies whose mothers were unable to breastfeed."When my baby was transferred to intermediate care, I was finally able to hold him and breastfeed him," Mirtha recalls, becoming emotional again. "I remember it so clearly, and it still makes me emotional. It was the first time I held my baby, and I cried with joy."Liz Marlene Ayala, a mother of two who was pregnant as a teenager, says she chose the Paraguayan Red Cross because she received understanding and dignified treatment there.“I was very young, and one of the things that made me continue my treatment here was the way I was treated. I was 16 in 2000 and came here for my consultation because of how they treated teenagers.”Having returned more than 15 years later, she recognises the improvements in infrastructure and technology, as well as the respect and warmth of the healthcare team, which has remained unchanged over the years.Hospital and Paraguayan Red Cross staff also work with the Ministry of Health on campaigns promoting sexual and reproductive health, preventing cancer in women, tackling addiction and epidemics, and encouraging voluntary blood donation.Providing care with empathy, active listening, support, and ensuring adequate technology are all ways of protecting women, girls, and newborns.In Paraguay and around the world, the IFRC network will continue to promote safe, violence-free healthcare environments, so that every mother and baby receives the care they deserve from day one.Such investments therefore play a critical role in preventing what is often referred to as “obstetric violence”, in which women are subjected to inadequate care, neglect or mistreatment in facilities involved in reproductive healthcare.

Voices that pave the way: Women's leadership in humanitarian action

Red Cross youth camps in the Americas: A chance to grow, celebrate and keep the flame of humanity alive

At a time when the challenges humanity faces seem increasingly complex, and the only consistent feature of modern life is rapid societal and technology change, the creativity and energy of young people is more critical than ever. Young people have a unique ability to adapt, propose innovative solutions, and redefine humanitarian leadership for the future—yet they often face an uncertain path, unsure of how to make a meaningful impact.That’s why National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies organize youth camps that give them opportunities to learn, grow, and build lasting connections, trusting that they will become the next generation of humanitarian leaders.Latin America is one of the regions where this tradition is especially strong: every year, hundreds of young people come together to share cultures, celebrate local identities, and connect with others from the youth movement, both within their countries and around the world.2025 is no exception. As we mark International Youth Day, we share the story of this long-standing regional tradition, which is more relevant than ever."In the 1980s, several thematic volunteer networks were created, including the first aid and paramedic networks. This began to be used more in Central America, then spread throughout the continent. In fact, there were Central American first aid camps, as well as camps focusing on other topics. From there, youth networks and camps also emerged.”Andrés Morales, Thematic Lead for Volunteer Development and Youth Engagement for the IFRC in the Americas.Currently, there are three youth networks in the Americas: Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Not all countries hold the camps, and the frequency varies according to local capacity. However, in countries such as Mexico and Costa Rica, the camps have been held consistently over time and are held every year.This year, Costa Rican Red Cross welcomed seven delegations of young people from the Red Cross in Italy, Mexico, Panama, the United Kingdom, the United States, Suriname and Venezuela. From Costa Rica, there were more than 500 young people from all over the country.“The Red Cross youth programme in Costa Rica has been around for over 100 years. We have been running camps for over 50 years.”Dyanne Marenco, President of the Costa Rican Red Cross, during the Coatí 2025 camp in January this year.“We really enjoyed the recreational and cultural activities and spending time with fellow members from other National Societies.”Sergio Jaén , National Director of Red Cross Youth in Panama, who participated in the Costa Rican Red Cross camp.Uruguay, Panama and Chile are examples of countries that also held camps in the first months of this year to strengthen the technical and leadership skills of young volunteers.In Mexico, the Mexican Red Cross national youth camp is taking place at the time of this publication, from August 6 to 9.“We are gathering in Morelos, in Tepoztlán, with more than 1,500 young people from all states of the Republic. We will be spending four days sharing knowledge, emotions, and, among all of us, family ties.”Judith López, from the National Youth Coordination of Mexican Red Cross.What are the youth camps like?Every camp is unique, whether it lasts one day or three, or whether it involves dozens or hundreds of participants. The important thing is to create a space where people can meet and share.“It's a place where young people can develop, learn, grow a lot as individuals, and have fun while doing something good for others. For me, being a Red Cross volunteer is an opportunity to grow as a person and develop skills that can be useful in my personal life and in my future professional life.”Luisa Ana Paula Carrasco, a volunteer and participant in the Red Cross Youth camp in Chile.From Andrés' perspective, beyond the tents and cooking stoves, a Red Cross youth camp is a place where four major dimensions come together:1. Celebration of young people and their communitiesThe camps recognize and celebrate the diversity of young identities within the Red Cross Movement, as well as the power of young people in humanitarian action.Meals, customs, dances and music from different regions of each country are shared at the camps, enriching the experience and promoting enjoyment and healthy interactions.2. Sharing achievements and experiencesFrom environmental and migration initiatives to mental health and road safety campaigns, camps provide the perfect opportunity to showcase the successes of youth programmes and share experiences and insights with people from different places.3. Learning and growthFrom first aid to reproductive health education, young people gain the tools they need to make a positive impact in their communities.At the camps, young people facilitate practical workshops, disaster simulations, sports competitions, rallies involving physical and mental challenges, and cultural presentations. These activities strengthen personal growth and leadership skills.4. Connecting with other peopleThe most compelling reason to organise a camp is to meet people from different places and backgrounds who share the same Red Cross values.Connecting with young people from different places, including other countries and continents, broadens your worldview and inspires you to work towards your dreams and goals.“The Red Cross is a place where I feel safe to share my ideas, to share what I think, and to share what I have to contribute to society, knowing that these ideas will be heard and taken into consideration."Alexandra Fernández, volunteer and participant in the Uruguayan Red Cross youth camp.Why are these camps important?For Andrés, these spaces serve as a reminder that, even in times of crisis and disaster, there is a network of young people willing to support their communities and help those in need.Additionally, camps and youth programmes frequently provide opportunities for nurturing new leadership within the Red Cross. Many current board members began their journey in a youth programme. This shows, yet again, that investing in young people is investing in the future of humanitarian action.“What I have learned at the Red Cross is that it doesn't matter what color your skin is, how much money you have, or anything else, because we will always help those in need.”Allison Gutiérrez, a young volunteer and participant in the Costa Rican Red Cross youth camp.If you are a young volunteer interested in organizing a camp or similar activity, contact your nearest Red Cross branch. Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement to make our dreams come true.Read more about Red Cross Red Crescent youth initiatives:Uruguayan Red Cross project sends life-saving message: the lives of young people cannot be left just to chance – suicide is preventable | IFRC

Overcoming barriers: Red Cross language classes help displaced Ukrainians open doors to a new life

Financial insecurity, unemployment, limited access to healthcare, and language barriers are everyday challenges for millions of people who fled Ukraine after the escalation of the conflict.While finding safety is a critical first step, the harder journey often begins after — rebuilding a life in a new country, surrounded by an unfamiliar language and culture.To support this journey, Red Cross National Societies in Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, and Romania have launched language programs that go far beyond grammar and vocabulary.These classes are helping displaced people from Ukraine find their voices — giving them the tools they need to access work, education, healthcare, and, perhaps most importantly, a sense of belonging.The projecthas been made possible by the Swiss Contribution to the European Union under the Rapid Response Fund. This initiative aims to reduce social and economic disparities within the European Union.‘At 57, I’m starting over’One of those taking part in the classes is Iryna, who never imagined she’d be learning a new language at 57 — or starting over in a new country. Now living in Latvia with her daughter-in-law and grandson, she attends Latvian courses run by the Latvian Red Cross.“I lack speaking practice, so I eagerly signed up,”she says. “We have a great teacher.”Iryna’s family fled Kharkiv when the conflict escalated, spending days sheltering in a village basement with other families before finally boarding crowded evacuation trains. Eventually, they made it to Latvia.Life in a new country hasn’t been easy. Back home, Iryna worked as a chief accountant. Now, she works as a cleaner in a theater — a job she is grateful for, even if it is far from her field. “To return to my profession, I need to know the language,” she explains.But she finds joy in small moments. “At the theater, I get to watch pre-premiere shows and chat with the actors,” she adds with a smile.‘I never thought I’d need another language'Vadym, 55, from Mykolaiv, fled Ukraine with his family after the conflict escalated. Their journey to Romania took three days. “It was difficult,” he recalls. “We had never been abroad before, so I never thought I’d need to learn another language.”Before the escalation of the conflict, Vadym worked at the port — a skilled job that remains in demand. But in Romania, the language barrier stands in the way of continuing in his profession.Now, he attends Romanian language classes organized by the Romanian Red Cross. “It is helpful. We talk about different topics in class, and now I can go to the store and explain myself at a basic level,” he says.‘I was afraid — how would I explain if my child got sick?’For nearly three years, Mila and her son have been living in Hungary after fleeing Ukraine. She still remembers the fear and the long queues at the border. Everything felt uncertain — and without speaking the language, even the simplest tasks felt overwhelming.“I was afraid — what if my child got sick? How would I explain things to a doctor?” she recalls.When Mila learned the Hungarian Red Cross offered free language classes, she joined right away.“I came to the course and really liked it,” she says. “I met other Ukrainians, learned a lot of useful things from them, and we started talking more.”Being able to practice Hungarian in a supportive space has made a big difference. “Now I can go to the store, the pharmacy, or any office on my own — and get things done,” she says.Mila’s confidence is growing with every lesson. “When I reach a better language level, I plan to find a job here,” she says, full of hope for a more stable future.‘To find a well-paid job without knowing the language is impossible’When the conflict escalated, Yuliia left Zaporizhzhia with her two children, hoping to give them a safer life.“I wanted my children to grow up in peace, in a country without fear,” she says.Later, her mother joined them in Lithuania. Both women found work as cleaners — honest, important work that helped them start over. But Yuliia knows that speaking the language is key to opening more doors.“To find a well-paid job without knowing the language is impossible,” she says.That is why she and her mother now attend Lithuanian language classes run by the Lithuanian Red Cross.“I can already talk to people who do not speak Russian,” Yuliia shares. “It is still hard to speak freely, but I understand.”For Yuliia, Iryna, Vadym and Mila — and for many others taking part in these classes learning the local language is not just about communication. It is about regaining control, rebuilding dignity — and taking the first steps toward a future they can shape themselves.

Women leading emergency response: a path of learning and empowerment in the Red Cross

Paula Vairoletti joined the Uruguayan Red Cross as communications manager in 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an all-hands-on-deck moment that required everyone to wear many hats as they responded to rapidly changing events.Very soon, she was working closely with disaster and risk-management departments and getting more involved in field operations.As time went on, she went further in leading field operations. In 2022, soon after she took up the role of coordinator for integrated risk and disaster management, Uruguay suffered an intense and prolongued drought. Backed by funding from a rapid allocation from the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF), the Uruguayan Red Cross mobilized quickly.This was Paula's first time leading a team in an emergency and the response put a special focus on continued assessment and awareness of community needs. As she saw how the recovery process unfolded, the experience reinforced her belief in the importance of having women in leading operational roles.“Having women in operations, let alone in leadership roles, changes the way humanitarian assistance is delivered to women and girls in communities affected by disasters and emergencies," she says.When women lead community engagement processes, she notes, the needs of women and girls in vulnerable situations are more likely to be heard and addressed. These include critical daily concerns such as safety, menstrual hygiene or differentiated attention to pregnant and lactating women.Shortly after the operation was completed, Paula worked as an intern at the IFRC regional office in Panama, alongside the IFRC-DREF management team, an experience that has further solidified her development within the IFRC network.The internship was part of something called the Equity and Leadership Initiative, implemented jointly by the IFRC and the Spanish Agency for International Developent Cooperation.Launched in 2020, the programme’s goal is clear: to increase the number of women in humanitarian leadership positions in the Americas.“The internship helped me a lot to see many situations from the other side, to get to know the work areas, to know how the IFRC mechanisms work, to get to know the teams and to be able to contribute knowledge and experience from the perspective of a local Red Cross team," says Paula.As part of this alliance, the IFRC office for the Americas is promoting a program to host volunteers or staff from National Red Cross Societies as interns.The purpose of these internships is twofold: to strengthen the capacity of the local Red Cross teams in each country and to develop the leadership skills of the people who are part of the IFRC’s global Surge mechanism.The Surge mechanism is the way the IFRC’s global humanitarian network deploys specialized rapid response personnel when there is a need to scale-up the response to a medium- or large-scale disaster.It means people like Paula continue to develop and also share knowledge with others. In addition to building technical capacity, the internships promotes professional and personal development that allows participants to use all their knowledge and skills to alleviate human suffering.Grow to leadGrettel Perez also took part in the internship programme. As national director of the emergency first response corps for the Panamanian Red Cross, Grettel joined the Panamanian Red Cross as a volunteer first responder almost 30 years ago, driven by the desire to serve and save lives. Today she leads one of the most important technical corps of the organization.“The fact that I won the position of national director of the emergency first-response corps – after 53 years in which there had never been a woman – marked a very big milestone within the unit and the institution,”she says proudly.Grettel is also president of the local committee of the Panamanian Red Cross in Chepo, and national focal point for mental health and psychosocial support, as she is not only a Red Cross volunteer, but also a clinical psychologist by profession.Grettel was an intern in the IFRC disaster management unit in August 2023. According to her, the internship allowed her to strengthen her personal leadership and broaden her perspective on what emergency management entails.“In developing actions on the ground, our vision of what needs to be done has grown, it's not the same as it was before,”Grettel reflects. “The internship has opened opportunities for us and has given us the vision to work more closely with people in the communities”.Grettel's trajectory is a clear example that when women lead, they bring a comprehensive approach that incorporates care and considers the specific needs of each person.“In my team, there are mothers and sometimes they say that they can't attend the courses because they don't have anyone to leave their children with,” explains Grettel. “In response to this, we create separate spaces where children can spend the day so that women don't miss out the opportunity to receive training”.“I try all the time to include these safe spaces in the activities we do. We have competencies, we just need to create the conditions to exercise them.”This approach not only allows more women to participate in training but also breaks down stigmas about gender roles and demonstrates that being a mother is not incompatible with leading humanitarian responses.A network that supports and multipliesBehind every woman leader is a support network that has grown over the years.As Paula says, "we talk a lot about the network of women that is created around emergencies, programs and operations. We all connect with each other, and in the end, your friends' friends are your friends”.This network not only provides emotional support, but is also a source of knowledge and professional support. As Paula mentions, sometimes all it takes is a phone call or a message to clear up a doubt or get advice.For all women who dream of leadership, the message from these admirable leaders is clear and powerful:"We have to encourage each other, throw ourselves into the puddle,"says Paula with a laugh. “If you put your mind to it, if you want to do it, do it, you will have a whole network of women who will support you and be your biggest cheerleaders.”“The first thing is to believe in yourself. When you believe in yourself, you strengthen who you are and that is how you can conquer the world,” Grettel concludes. “Sometimes the journey is tiring, but the satisfaction of achieving our goals is priceless. In the end, what we experience and go through along the way is dwarfed by what we accomplish.”Read more recent International Women’s Day stories:International Women's Day: ‘At first, I was afraid, but I’ve learned that with determination, anything is possible.’Best friends forever: Two women, friends since childhood, dedicate their lives to helping othersHow investing in women humanitarian leadership paid off in the AmericasInternational Women's Day: Patricia’s path from exclusion to ‘a profound sense of belonging’

International Women’s Day: In Cameroon’s Far North region, mothers’ clubs provide a model for building a healthier, more prosperous future

In a region where diseases such as cholera and malaria continue to pose a significant risk to life, mothers’ clubs are providing communities with essential information on health and hygiene, while also looking out for signs of potential health problems or outbreaks."In the past, many women did not understand the importance of vaccination, menstrual hygiene, or prenatal consultations,”says Tchinabi Thérèse, president of the Kodek mothers' club and mother of six children.“Today, thanks to the training provided by the Red Cross, we know how to explain these topics to our community and convince them to adopt good practices."The work of the mothers’ clubs goes beyond issues of health. They work with local parents, for example, to allow young girls to stay in school and they support a wide range of income-generating projects that provide women with their reliable sources of revenue.The projects include a community farm that grows millet and cowpeas, a project in which members produce artisanal oils (sesame, balanites, moringa), a farm that raises sheep and many other initiatives.The activities are supported by something called theProgrammatic Partnership,a multi-year partnership between the IFRC, member National Societies and theEuropean Union to help communities worldwide be better prepared for disasters and health emergencies.Supporting safe and healthy communitiesIn Cameroon’s Far North, the results are tangible: local health authorities report that more women are now regularly visiting their local health centre, hospital births have increased, and proper hygiene practices are becoming widespread.“This initiative has helped a great deal in the Kodek health area,”explains Manasse Kouchakbe, midwife and Interim Head of the Kodek Health Centre. “Mothers’ clubs have been very helpful in raising awareness in households and they also help us to identify diseases with epidemic potential in the communities.“Take malaria – through sensitization, volunteers have increased community members’ use of insecticide-treated bed nets. Now, the number of malaria cases has dropped significant.”In emergency health situations, the mothers’ clubs also mobilize."When a child was bitten by a dog, we immediately alerted the Red Cross and advised the mother on the necessary actions,”says Aïssatou Dahirou, president of the Dougoï mothers' club. “Thanks to this quick intervention, the child received timely medical care."With the support of the Red Cross, these women are not simply recipients of humanitarian aid; they have become public health advocates within their own communities.Promoting equality, education and empowermentBeyond their role in addressing health and hygiene issues, the mothers’ clubs are also helping to empower women – particularly young women and girls – to have more control over their future and well-being.One of the major challenges, for example, is the continued practice of early marriage, in which girls are married before they are able to finish school. To help change these practices, the Red Cross and the mothers' clubs are actively working together to change community attitudes and convince families to let girls finish their education. "In the past, girls were married off at 12 or 13 years old,”explains Aïssatou Dahirou, president of the Dougoï mothers' club. “Today, thanks to awareness efforts, more and more families are allowing their daughters to continue their education."Supported by the Red Cross, the mothers' clubs organize awareness sessions in schools and neighborhoods to encourage parents to keep their daughters in school. Their message: an educated girl can help lift her entire family out of poverty.One of those parents, Soureya, did in fact change her thinking on the issue after visiting with the Kodek mothers' club."I had to drop out of school in my first year of primary middle class,”she says. “Today, I want my daughters to go further than I did. Thanks to the Red Cross, I have understood the importance of education, and I do everything I can to keep my kids in school."Supporting women’s economic empowermentThe Cameroon Red Cross and the mothers’ clubs also supporting the economic empowerment of women through a support program for Income-Generating Activities (IGAs), enabling the mothers' clubs to develop local economic initiatives.In Kodek, women cultivate a community farm, growing millet and cowpeas, ensuring a stable source of income.In Dougoï, they have established a production of artisanal oils (sesame, balanites, moringa).They have also launched a sheep farming project, made possible by 600,000 FCFA in funding provided by the Red Cross."We started with five sheep, and today we have managed to expand our flock. After the Feast of the Sacrifice, we will sell our animals and generate profits," explains Aïssatou Dahirou.However, challenges remain, feeding the animals is costly, and the women still lack sufficient equipment to strengthen their activities. Despite these obstacles, they remain determined to expand their IGAs and ensure their financial autonomy.With Red Cross support, they are not only becoming economically independent but also strengthening their role in decision-making within their households and communities.

International Women's Day: Patricia’s path from exclusion to ‘a profound sense of belonging’

Born in a rural, farming area insouthern Zambia,Patricia Choongo Moolo was onlythree years old when she woke one day with a very high temperature. She was also unable to walk or talk.Her mother took her to the nearest clinic, five kilometers away, where she was diagnosed with polio. From that time on, she lost the use of both of her legs.As a result, Patricia has had to face and overcome many significant challenges: discrimination, financial hardships,limited access to education, and the social exclusion caused by deeply ingrained social stigma.Her parents’ friends and family, for example, discouraged them from sending Patricia to school, saying that she could never be good at anything. Fortunately, Patricia’s parents refused to take this advice. They stood up for their daughter and ensured she finished her schooling.Now, many years later, 49-year old Patricia is a widely respected member of the community, known as a courageous advocate for women's empowerment.In fact, she has emerged as a leading voice in her community, playing and active and important role in shoring up her community’s preparedness and resilience to natural disasters and health emergencies.Her journey from social exclusion to the heart of community life, she says, was given a significant boost in recent years by a project that ensures marginalized people – including people with disabilities – have a voice and role in crisis preparedness."Due to my disability and low self-esteem, I was previously unable to participate in community meetings,” she says.“With the introduction of this project, I experienced a profound sense of belonging and empowerment.”The project she refers to is part of a larger, global collaboration (known asThe Programmatic Partnership) between the IFRC, many of its member National Societies, and the European Union.According to Patricia, the initiative enabled her to actively engage in local development efforts and contribute meaningfully to decisions being made in her community. For example, she serves as representative for individuals living with disabilities to her local disaster management committee.In that role, she participates in disaster management training sessions and in community sensitization activities. During the End Cholera Now campaign, she went door-to-door with hygiene and prevention information and she goes through neighbourhoods regularly to spread awareness about early warning systems, and reducing flood risks.‘A disability does not mean an in-ability’At the same time, Patricia also works to supports herself and her family. She works in the fields picking and selling produce on local roadsides. She also sells stones for building projects that she breaks up herself by hand.To do her daily work, Patricia has two wheelchairs, the standard one and a tricycle wheelchair that can go over rough terrain. She uses that one for field work.On a day-to-day basis, Patricia often interacts with many people, including some that have a disabilities, and she encourages by saying that “a disability does not mean an in-ability”."My disability enables me to reach out to many people, and especially to those with a disability,”she says. “They get encouraged after seeing me, and appreciate that when you are determined, you can accomplish anything”.About the partnership project: Beyond participationThe partnership in Zambia includes the European Union, the Zambia Red Cross Society, the IFRC and the Netherlands Red Cross. Much of its work is done through Satellite Disaster Management Committees, which function as part of Zambia’s Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit.A key element of the initiative centers around involving local voices in every step of the planning and implementation of disaster-preparedness and risk-reduction actions. This ensures that any actions taken address the specific needs of the community.This also ensures the community is connecting with the national government. Committee members include community leaders, ex-government representatives, local stakeholders, and people from vulnerable groups. Special attention is paid to women, children and people with disabilities.But the programme goes a step further. Inclusion efforts involve concrete actions to remove physical, social, and economic barriers that hinder people with disabilities from fully participating. This is done through community discussions, storytelling, awareness raising, and by involving people with disabilities in all aspects of the work.Overcoming stigmas and doubtsAt first, Patricia faced resistance from some community members who doubted her ability to take on this role. But Patricia persevered. By engaging with her community, she was able to successfully challenge misconceptions and stigmas.But taking on these issues is not an easy challenge. In many parts of Zambia, women and girls – especially those with disabilities – face compounded challenges. These include greater risks of gender-based violence, economic marginalization, and a lack of access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.Many women with disabilities continue to struggle against entrenched gender norms that limit their autonomy and access to resources, while economic dependency also hinders the full participation of many women with disabilities.For many women with disabilities, this exclusion is even more pronounced, as they are often denied marriage prospects, inheritance rights, and the ability to fully participate in economic life. These harmful practices have long-lasting effects, leaving many women with disabilities economically vulnerable and socially isolated.In addition, there are many structural barriers such as limited physical accessibility in public spaces, lack of assistive devices.Despite the many structural barriers, Patricia says as long as she has her tricycle and determination, and the confidence and trust that the community has in her, she can accomplish any assignments given."I have become a role model for many women who may hesitate to actively participate in community meetings and activities,”she says. “By taking the initiative myself, I aim to show that if I can do it, they can too—regardless of their circumstances."Read our other International Women’s Day stories:International Women's Day: ‘At first, I was afraid, but I’ve learned that with determination, anything is possible.’Best friends forever: Two women, friends since childhood, dedicate their lives to helping othersHow investing in women humanitarian leadership paid off in the Americas

A pioneer for women in humanitarian leadership, Margareta Wahlström talks about gender equity in the ‘peculiar profession’ of humanitarian relief work

“It’s a peculiar profession,” Margareta Wahlström says when asked about her life as a humanitarian aid worker. Wahlström has worked in crisis situations from Vietnam to Cambodia to Afghanistan, and she held high-level positions at both the United Nations and the Swedish Red Cross. Along with a stressful work culture that often rewards a certain workaholic “cowboy” mentality, the “peculiarities” of humanitarian work also mean that women are less likely than men to reach decision-making positions. Thanks in part to Wahlström, that is changing. Her consistent advocacy for gender equity is one reason she was recently awarded The Henry Dunant Medal, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s highest honor.

IFRC Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Children from Violence Amid Rising Crises and Disasters

Bogota/Geneva, 7 November – More than a billion children worldwide face threats that endanger their safety, education and dignity, with violence and climate-related disasters undermining their rights and futures. At the first Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence against Children, held in Bogotá on 7 – 8 November and hosted by the governments of Colombia and Sweden, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is calling for bold, immediate action to uphold children’s rights.“Governments, organizations, and communities must recognize the long-term consequences of failing to protect children,” said Gurvinder Singh, IFRC Senior Advisor on Child Protection. “Violence and neglect in childhood create deep societal impacts, fueling cycles of poverty, health issues, and instability. We are at a critical point: the world must commit to safeguarding children across all ages, genders, and abilities.”Violence and climate disasters are among the most urgent threats to children. Half of the world’s children are still unable to exercise their right to live free from violence, which remains pervasive in both daily and humanitarian settings. Children are exposed to physical, emotional, and sexual violence in spaces meant to protect them, such as homes, schools, and communities.Simultaneously, climate-related disasters — floods, heatwaves, and storms — are increasing the risk of harm, displacement, and exploitation for children. As climate emergencies escalate, so must investment in child protection, focusing on early warning, early action, and proactive measures to safeguard children before disasters strike. This is especially true for those children too often left out and left behind in their communities, such as those with disabilities.Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies bring vast experience in implementing localized programs to protect children from violence, abuse, and exploitation. They work to ensure safe, equal, and uninterrupted access to quality, inclusive education and learning opportunities. Scaling up these evidence-based initiatives is essential to advancing child protection and achieving the goals of this Ministerial Conference.IFRC Vice President Natia Loladze, said, "We know children are tremendously at risk in disasters, conflicts and health crises. The time to act is now. Protecting children in humanitarian and displacement settings is both a moral obligation and an investment in the future."The IFRC’s 2025-2028 Appeal: Ending Violence Against Children in and Through Education mobilizes partnerships with schools, communities, and public institutions to create safe environments and reduce risks in emergencies. The IFRC collaborates with Ministries of Education, Health, and Climate, as well as local agencies and researchers, to develop risk-forecasting systems that protect children from violence and exploitation, particularly in climate-related disasters such as heatwaves and floods.“Protecting children from violence and disasters is a shared responsibility, and we are – and will continue to be - dedicated to working with communities, public officials and children themselves to ensure that no child grows up hopeless or in fear,” said Colombian Red Cross President, Dr. Judith Carvajal de Álvarez. “Our humanitarian network’s 16 million volunteers uniquely reinforce children’s participation, community systems and key services that uphold children’s rights and well-being".For more information and to set up an interview, please contact: [email protected] Colombia – Rafael Payares +573135644837In Panama - Susana Arroyo Barrantes +50769993199In Geneva – Tommaso Della Longa +41797084367Hannah Copeland +41762369109Notes for editors:Examples of the Red Cross’ work on child protection in the Americas include:Colombia: The Red Cross is implementing a child protection project in areas affected by armed conflict (also active in Honduras) and developing mechanisms for safeguarding children in Nariño and Tumaco. Additionally, the Red Cross runs the "Action and Coexistence Program," which promotes inclusion and fosters values of tolerance, respect, and non-discrimination to prevent violence among children and adolescents.Honduras: The Red Cross manages a center for unaccompanied migrant children and returned migrant families, providing administrative assistance, healthcare, psychosocial support, and promoting social reintegration.Panama: The Red Cross develops programs such as educational brigades and "Blue Schools," which create safe environments in educational spaces, encourage environmental care, and support mental health. It also operates a child protection shelter in coordination with the government, offering healthcare, education, and psychosocial support to children aged 0 to 12.Mexico: The Red Cross has developed a child protection policy and program led by national youth teams to address the protection and mental health needs of children during emergencies and along migratory routes.Costa Rica: The Red Cross collaborates with organizations like World Vision and UNICEF on child protection and participation projects in emergencies, as well as providing medical care and nutrition support for children and adolescents in migratory contexts.Guatemala: In coordination with public officials, Red Cross volunteers offer health and mental health care, humanitarian assistance, and support for returned migrant children. This includes psychoeducation projects and school tutoring aimed at reducing school dropouts. Additionally, they run an awareness program on health, hygiene, and first aid, featuring cartoon characters who teach children about these topics.Ecuador: The Red Cross operates safe spaces for children in migratory contexts, supported by a child protection policy aligned with its national policy on protection, gender, and inclusion. It also runs early childhood projects that assist families with children aged 0 to 6, ensuring protection and family preservation.Trinidad and Tobago: Red Cross volunteers promote access to education and psychosocial support through child-friendly spaces.Cayman Islands: The Red Cross runs an educational YouTube program with animated characters, "Bobo and Teedee," which teach children about hygiene, health, safety, and family coexistence in an engaging way.

World Refugee Day: Europe’s experience with ‘private hosting’ of Ukrainian Refugees offers a new model for supporting people fleeing conflict and violence

After the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, countless people fled the country. Most went to other countries in Europe and now some 7 million people still live abroad.A significant percentage of these refugees were supported by host communities including individuals and families who welcomed them into their homes. This widespread show of solidarity provided an essential lifeline to numerous people from Ukraine.“She [the host] has done a lot for me,” said one of the Ukrainian guests, speaking about the people she is staying with in Hungary. “I found a job with her help... And somehow, we slowly became a family... And we started taking care of each other.”It was also an enriching experience for many of the host families."Sometimes we went shopping together or one bought a thing or two for the other, we shared things," says one woman from Poland who hosted a Ukranian family. “Together we supported and helped each other.”Such solidarity is not unique to the Ukraine conflict. People have welcomed refugees into their homes for as long as there have been wars, famines, and other calamities. But the movement of people from Ukraine that began after the escalation of hostilities in 2022 — and the response of many European countries — marks a significant moment in recent history.Instead of closing their doors to refugees, communities in Europe largely accepted them. The spontaneous expression of solidarity toward them —by private individuals and government authorities — meant that the people coming from Ukraine had additional accommodation options than the common reception facilities as collective centers or camps (as often happens when large amounts of people flee from one country to another).Rather, communities across Europe focused their support on the idea of housing people in private accommodations within host communities.Humanitarian organizations, government agencies, and enterprises that support people in need worked together in unprecedented ways in order to build on this solidarity. They coordinated multiple types of support, both for refugees and the people and communities hosting them.One key example is the Safe Homes Programme. Funded by the European Commission’s Asylum Migration and Integration Fund, the programme was implemented by the IFRCalong with Red Cross National Societies in nine European countries: Belgium, France, Ireland, Hungary, The Netherlands, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.Driven by the dedication of individuals, organisations and national authorities, the programme aimed to provide safe homes for people who fled Ukraine and to support their integration into national systems.A new modelWhile this approach is not new and National Societies and other organizations have matched refugees with host families, it has never before been done on this scale. The Safe Homes Programme, therefore, helped with the monumental tasks of sourcing, matching, safeguarding and nurturing relationships between hosts and guests. It also helped the organizations involved to reflect on good practices and lessons learned so that communities, governments and host communities might be better prepared for similar situations in the future.Recently, the programme released a comprehensive report “Safe Homes: Key Lessons From Hosting People Displaced from Ukraine in Private Homes”, which in many ways serves as a blueprint or model for similar mass collaboration around private hosting.“The aim is to grasp the full picture of the hosting situation in these countries, which not only allows for better decision-making in the short term, but also informs strategies for potential future initiatives,” says Denisse Solis, Manager of the Safe Homes Programme, IFRC Europe Regional Office.New lessons and new questionsThis is particularly critical in cases such as this when the potential solutions are as complex as the challenges. For example, the kind of solidarity shown toward Ukrainian refugees is also extended to all people in need of safety,It’s worth noting, however, that private hosting is not new, nor is it exclusive to Europe and Ukrainian refugees.Private hosting has been widely supported by National Societies, local organizations, and individuals in various ways in all regions along crises where population movement has taken place. The Irish Red Cross’s work in helping to pair Syrian refugees with host families is just one example.There are also other complexities within host communities. Often, they too are going through tough times in different ways. At the time of the Ukraine conflict escalation, for example, the world was still grappling with the aftermath of a global pandemic, with economies and supply chains stressed, and money for public services severely stretched.One key question therefore, is to what degree is it fair to rely too much on private hosting without a proper strategy on what will happen next, as this type of crisis usually it do not resolve easily.“The state has relied almost entirely on the solidarity of its citizens,” noted one representative for local authorities Belgium who was quoted in the report. “It’s a problem because there was no prospect of a long-term solution. Host families were stretched to the limit. Then the pressure fell on local authorities, which had to find solutions.”The Safe Homes Programme report centers around 15 key ‘Lessons learned’. Lesson number one: “Hosting schemes must be designed with clear exit strategies, set up from the start, which enable guests to transition from hosting arrangements.”This lesson is backed up by a quote in the report from a Ukrainian case worker for the Irish Red Cross. “At the very beginning, people thought they were going to be here for a short period of time. Everybody was in this temporary mode,” the case worker said. “Most people were sitting on their suitcases waiting for the day to go back home. But now, you can see the changes in people’s way of thinking. They finally started to realise that it is not going to happen anytime soon.”It all starts with a Safe HomeIn each country, Red Cross Societies implemented the Safe Homes programme in different ways, in the “Safe Homes: Case Studies” you will find detailed information of the differentefforts, successful experiences, but also different challenges. [See also one-page, country-specific summaries of the case studies].“One of the biggest challenges has been the lack of housing, and this is particularly frustrating for social workers because they have no influence on this issue,” said one social worker from the Luxembourg Red Cross quoted in the report.“Many guests feel deeply frustrated because they do not want to return to reception facilities, but they do not have access to social housing either.”In short, hosts provide essential support, but it cannot replace public financing and support for housing. Nor can host families be expected to replace the role of social workers and public authorities. In the end, it’s about providing a complex array of support from a variety of angles and partners. But it starts with a safe home.“Everything starts with accommodation,” says one social worker, Slovak Red Cross quoted in the report. “We heard that all the time from the refugees. Unless they know where they are going to stay, they can't focus on something else like enrolling kids to school, find a job, and so on.”

Mohammed Alburai: Born in a refugee camp in Gaza, he became a double refugee when he sought safety for his family in Slovenia. Now he helps other refugees for the Slovenian Red Cross.

Born in the Deir El-Balah refugee camp in Gaza, Mohammed Alburai worked as a volunteer ambulance driver for the Palestine Red Crescent before leaving for Slovenia in 2019. Now a cultural mediator and translator for the Slovenian Red Cross, Mohammed helps migrants and refugees cope with their new life in Slovenia. He helps migrants connect with lost family members, organizes sports and social events, and talks with them about their needs and concerns. “That’s the best part in my job,” he says. “I meet people from different cultures every day — from Cuba, Bangladesh, Mongolia, all over Africa and the Middle East. They know I feel what they are going through and they trust me.” Mohammed also talks about his friends and former colleagues at the Palestinian Red Crescent who have died in the line of duty and he pays tribute to all Red Cross and Red Crescent staff who have been killed while working to save others.

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Menstruation doesn't stop during disasters

When heavy rains led to massive floods in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul in May, normal life for 2.3 million people came to a standstill. Ever since, the rain has not stopped, and the needs have grown exponentially. More than 80,000 people remain in temporary shelters and need help urgently.While all these disruptions may have impeded supply chains or made basic living supplies harder to find, they have not interrupted the natural menstruation cycles of half of the people impacted by these floods."One of the problems we face in dealing with the flood emergency in Brazil is the difficulty in getting access menstrual hygiene and menstrual health products", reported Dr. Julia Klock, a medical volunteer who paused her regular work to volunteer with the Brazilian Red Cross during the floods.While menstruation is as natural as eating, or sleeping, too often, people are reluctant to talk about the lack ofessential menstrual health products because this topic is sometimes seen as embarrassing or awkward — something to be hidden. "In many communities, this topic is still taboo," Dr. Klock notes. This year, World Menstruation Day takes on the theme "Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld" in order to fully normalizie menstruation and to render these taboos to history.In order to help us unpack this issue, we asked Katherine Fuentes, the protection, gender and inclusion coordinator for the IFRC in the Americas, to tell us what top things peopleshould be talking about when it comes tomenstruation and hygiene during and after a major crisis.Access to menstrual hygiene products.“When a disaster occurs, such as the recent floods in Brazil, access to menstrual products becomes more difficult.That is why the emergency items we distribute include menstrual hygiene products, considering how many people of menstruating age have been affected by the disaster.These hygiene products can range from sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups to menstrual panties, cloth pads, hygiene buckets, among others.Clean, safe and private facilitiesWe seek to ensure that menstruating individuals have access to clean drinking water, clean restrooms, and private spaces to change and dispose of waste properly. Education and awareness-raisingWe work to ensure that people are informed about the menstrual cycle, so that they know how to manage their menstrual hygiene in difficult conditions, where to access products and how to dispose of them.To ensure menstrual health, the involvement of the whole community, including boys and men, is key. Knowing about the menstrual cycle helps to reduce stigma, promotes collective accompaniment, and helps to care for health and promote well-being.Some actions in this area are group meetings and consultation processes to learn about the specific needs of menstruating people.Psychosocial supportIt is possible that during emergencies, menstruation is stigmatized. So it is necessary to provide psychosocial support and create an environment where people can talk openly, without taboos, with a focus on Protection, Gender and Inclusion. In this way the individual needs of each person is considered.To provide appropriate care, we must recognize what gender stereotypes and roles are present, what are the ideas and practices in the community about menstrual health, and how our humanitarian assistance programs can address the needs of menstruating people.”For more information, please see the following links toIFRC guidelines and toolkits for managing the menstrual health of people affected by emergencies and disasters. • Minimum Standards for PGI in Emergencies • Guidance for Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Management NeedsFor donations or more information about the floods in Brazil, visit our Emergency Appeal

Investing in women means ‘access to resources to overcome challenges’

Gloria Lombo knows what it takes to rise to the highest level of humanitarian leadership in her country, and she understands the critical importance of protecting women during crisis.As Secretary General of the Red Cross of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, she is just as comfortable in a business suit as she is in a hard hat, with a shovel in her hand, or handing out aid supplies.From her years as an acvitist and volunteer, she also understands people power and has the skills and experience to inspire other humanitarians.Can you tell us a personal story or a situation in which you managed to break ‘feminine’ stereotypes or social expectations?Of course I can. In Africa, and in the DRC in particular, any professional promotion for women is attributed to what is commonly called "the promotion couch", which means going out with your superior or your boss instead of meritocracy.It is possible to break through this thinking, and my case illustrates this, which is why I feel comfortable sharing my personal experience.My professional career at the Red Cross of the DRC began in 2014 as Head of the Gender and Youth Division, and then the Gender and Diversity division, where I ensured the involvement and balanced representation of women, young people and minorities in the activities implemented by the Red Cross of the DRC.Then, in mid 2019, [I served] as director in charge of General Services (Administration and Logistics) and 2020 as Director of Programmes and Partnership. Since December 2022, I have been serving as Secretary General.This was all achieved because people could follow my track record of professionalism, acquired experience and capacities. The choice of personnel for the current position is also subject to tests and evaluations of certain objective criteria by the National Society’s Management Committee.Is there anything you do in your daily life, whether at work or in your private life, to defend women's rights?I'm a human rights activist, a defender of women's and girls' rights, a facilitator and a multi-disciplinary trainer on different themes such as prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual and gender-based violence.I help women and girls to discover their potential and how to deploy it to be useful in the community. I encourage female candidates to apply for any recruitment notice issued within our institution, with the aim of having a more or less equitable distribution in the various command and management positions within the institution that I lead.Why do you think we should invest in women? And how should we do it?Women are human beings who must thrive in the same way as men. She must be autonomous and resilient. Investing in women also means giving her access to the various resources needed to help her overcome the various challenges she faces. This way she can build a world in which she can realise her rights by thriving in all areas (financial, professional, etc.).For me, investing in women can be summed up with 3 ideas: access to resources, fulfilment and prosperity.How to invest?Strengthen her capacities through training, education, etc. “Educating a woman is educating a whole nation", as we say in my homeland in DR Congo.Position and encourage women in well-paid jobs and sectors.And provide them with social protection by giving them much greater access to information, the internet, land rights over agricultural land, etc.How do you help people understand the challenges faced by women in emergency situations in the DRC and elsewhere?The DRC Red Cross uses the SVEC tool (Study of Vulnerabilities and Enhanced Capacities), which organizes, through principles of social inclusion, community interviews to discuss the issue of women in general and during emergencies. These discussions focus on themes like: women's ability to cope with emergencies; understanding the emergency (nature and consequences) so that she can be properly assisted; the attitude to adopt during an emergency and the actions men can take to support women during emergencies.Everything goes through this mechanism, which is both an assessment and an awareness-raising exercise.

Special Women's Day episode: IFRC’s top leaders talk about how far we’ve come and the gaps that remain in gender equity

Kate Forbes, thenewly elected president of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies joins the organization’s Secretary General Jagan Chapagain in a wide-ranging exploration of gender equity in humanitarian action. They look at how far the humanitarian sector has come and what needs to be done now to close the gaps that still exist.

'Even in the darkest moments, women are strong and perseverant.’

As the media officer and spokesperson for the Palestine Red Crescent Society, Nebal Farsakh has been the voice of the Palestine Red Crescent during one of its most difficult and darkest times.To television viewers, social media followers and radio listeners around the world, Farsakh’s face, posts and voice have brought the daily — and often deadly — humanitarian challenges facing the people Gaza and her colleagues into stark relief.On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we asked Nebal Farsakh to reflect on the role women are playing in the humanitarian response, as well as her own approach to living as a woman professional during a devestating conflict.“I believe that women are capable of anything, and this is really my approach to life.I am married and have a ten-year-old son and a four-year-old daughter. As a family, we do not have stereotypes about women; my husband helps me with household chores and taking care of the children.And of course, I try to convey this to my children as well, meaning that I teach my son how to behave with his sister, and not to ask her to ‘serve him’. I am keen on having equality between them, and I emphasize that women should defend their full rights, whether the right to education or inheritance or other rights.On the professional side, I am breaking gender stereotypes through my work as the media officer and spokesperson for the Palestine Red Crescent Society. Some may think that women are not strong enough, or unable to work long hours or be available outside of working hours, but I have been working tirelessly since the war on Gaza started five months ago, appearing in the media, spreading news, and trying to be a source of support and a listening ear for my colleagues in Gaza.Shattering stereotypesThe war on Gaza confirmed to me that the volunteers and female employees of the Palestine Red Crescent are a perfect example of women who shatter stereotypes. We have female paramedics who are present in the field, providing first aid and medical support, despite the dangers and difficulties.For example, one paramedic continued her life-saving work despite her husband being detained, and despite all the other challenges, such as providing food and drinking water for her children. She was strong and powerful enough to carry out her humanitarian mission.And our colleague Hidaya Hamad, who was killed while she was in her office at the Palestine Red Crescent Society headquarters. Huda, who was the director of volunteers, was present at the Amal Hospital until the very last moment; she was a source of support and strength for the volunteers and her colleagues until her last breath.Hidaya, and the female employees and volunteers of the Palestine Red Crescent are the best example of women being strong, and capable of breaking gender stereotypes. Even in the darkest moments, women are strong and perseverant, not just men.”

How investing in women humanitarian leadership paid off in the Americas

Only five years ago, roughly 99 per cent of disaster response operations carried out by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in the Americas were led by men.Why such a disparity? In large part, it was because many of the women who could participate in training and operations necessary to hold those positions had children, elderly or disabled people in their care. This limited their availability to participate in emergency response.That is why in 2020, the IFRC and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) launched the Equity and Leadership initiative with a clear objective: to increase the number of women in management and humanitarian leadership positions in the Americas.The project started as an opportunity to build a peer-to-peer network in which women could share and grow together, both in leadership positions and at the local level. Along the years, women involved in the programme have gone through a leadership journey — which included management training and mentorship — through which they expanded their competencies to lead disaster and emergency operations."Perhaps there are few women leading humanitarian operations due to a lack of opportunities and motivation,” said Karla Vogt, a Bolivian Red Cross volunteer who participated in the initiative. “I have been a Red Cross volunteer for 11 years and I feel that there is still a need to promote internal gender equity policies.”The program, she added, gave women the opportunity to “generate spaces to show the best we have, to be an example for other women and to exercise our capabilities, which are often made invisible for gender reasons."The investment pays offThe results have been impressive. As a result of this partnership, the number of women leading humanitarian operations in the Americas increased in 2020 to 48 percent and then to 50 per cent in 2021. The IFRC responses to hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2020, the eruption of La Soufrière volcano in April 2021, the earthquake in Haiti in 2021 were also led by women.Vogt herself was deployed in 2021 as field coordinator of the flood response operation in Bocas del Toro, Panama. That same year, the operation in response to the migration crisis in Darien, Panama, was also led by a woman.But it doesn’t stop there. The regional management of the COVID-19 response operation, as well as the pandemic response in Peru, Argentina and Central America were in the hands of female experts in humanitarian action, a substantial improvement over the 2019 figures."The heart of La Soufrière volcano operation was and continues to be the women who gave and continue to give their being to the emergency response,”said Rhea Pierre, disaster preparedness and climate-crisis coordinator for IFRC in the English and Dutch speaking Caribbean. Pierre was deployed in 2021 as disaster manager as part of the response to the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.“I believe that programs such as this one have highlighted the vital role we play in such emergency contexts. In my case, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me that yes, I can make it, I can be an actor in this space and contribute positively to improving people's lives."In 2022, 48 percent of operations were led by women, but in 2023, this number dropped to 30 percent, an indication that the work of gender equity is something that is continually managed, not fixed with one fell swoop. This is one reason the America’s region continually charts the progress of gender equity in its emergency response via a regularly updated online website.Thanks to continued commitment, this number increased again in 2024, with 45% of operations led by women.While the initiative has led to an increase in the number of women trained, deployed and occupying leadership positions in humanitarian operations in the region, it is still necessary to advance the design, implementation and standardization of measures that more fully address the needs related to their domestic workloads.The work continuesDozens of women from Red Cross Societies in the region have also participated in training and mentoring programs and have contributed to the co-creation of a training and skills program."To women starting their humanitarian careers, I say: we need you,”says Diana Oviedo, IFRC Operations Coordinator in Central America who was also designated as IFRC's Central America COVID-19 Pandemic Response Coordinator. ”We need your voice, your vision of the world, your contributions to reduce the suffering of those who need it most.“You are enough, your experience, training and human qualities are enough, do not doubt yourself. Don't be afraid to give your opinion, whether you are in a leadership position or not. We are in this humanitarian world because we are united by a common feeling of humanity, trust your team, listen to the solutions that other people offer you, get close to other women who inspire you and learn from their experiences".Read our other International Women’s Day stories:International Women's Day: ‘At first, I was afraid, but I’ve learned that with determination, anything is possible.’International Women's Day: Patricia’s path from exclusion to ‘a profound sense of belonging’Best friends forever: Two women, friends since childhood, dedicate their lives to helping others

16 Days of Activism: IFRC network joins the global call to prevent gender-based violence

Over 16 days from late November into December, the IFRC joined Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world in putting a spotlight on the need to prevent sexual- and gender-based violence. The protection of people from sexual and gender-based violence is already a key part of the IFRC network’s approach in its response operations following crisis – when people can be particularly susceptible to exploitation. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign offers an important opportunity to raise and reinforce awareness and improve practices to ensure people are protected when they are at their most vulnerable. An annual global campaign, the 16 Days of Activism runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, International Human Rights Day. The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness on intimate partner violence, trafficking in persons for the purposes of sexual exploitation and abuse, and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence.This year, IFRC's 16 Days of Activism campaign focuses on shedding light on the harm, prevalence, and impact of SGBV on survivors. It’s also an important opportunity, therefor, to highlight the voices of people who work on prevention of SGBV all year long and who understand the impact that such violence has on survivors. One of those people Hloniphile Zinya, a youth officer for the South African Red Cross, who is making a significant impact in the fight against HIV and gender-based violence of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. “I grew up in an era where young people couldn’t freely talk to their parents or adults about sexual reproductive health or gender-based issues,” Zinya says. “This then contributed to a lot of young people becoming victims [of sexual abuse, violence or of sexually transmitted diseases]. Through her work, she has gained a profound understanding of the diverse community dynamics and their contributions to issues related to HIV and GBV. “I have also observed that survivors of gender-based violence undergo a lot of post trauma that in most cases influences the way they respond to life,” she says. “Most of the survivors are judged by others, thus making it difficult for them to come out and speak about their experiences.” See a deeper profile of Hloniphile Zinyaand her work by clicking here. Pervasive but preventable Although pervasive, sexual and gender-based violence is preventable.The IFRC campaign, therefore, has emphasized creating awareness among aid workers, communities,Red Cross and Red Crescentstaff, and volunteers about the needs of victims and survivors. The campaign also aims to address stigma and discrimination against those affected by SGBV. Here are just a few of the things the IFRC and Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies are doing around the world. Africa InZambia, the Red Cross is holding a symposium about investing in the prevention of violence against women and girls. South Africa Red Cross is hosting multiple activities across the country – from soup kitchens, andawarenesscampaigns at taxi ranks, to talks at schools and elder care homes. Lesotho Red Cross will host a fun-run and health talks, including providing Mental Health and Psychosocial Support(MHPSS)messages to deaf and hard of hearing care givers on SGBV and protection. The Americas In the Americas region, the IFRC is conducting a survey to gather volunteers’ perceptions about gendered violence and the types of support that we can provide to victims/survivors, such as referral to important lifesaving health, financial and legal aid services. The Colombia Red Cross is focusing on the issue of trafficking in persons and the risks and needs of at-risk people along transitory routes. Europe The Europe regional office is launching a Protection Gender and Inclusion(PGI)and SGBV guidance series and will host webinars as well as a photo exhibition in their office in Budapest, Hungary. In Türkiye,the team is sharinginformationon dignity kits that are given to women and girls affected by theearthquake, showing that steps to promote gender equality and access to goods and services generate resilient communities, and ultimately can prevent risks of SGBV occurring. Asia and Pacific In the Asiaand the Pacific region, the Bangladesh Red Crescent supported by IFRC will hold information sessions for volunteers and communities to increase awareness on preventing SGBV. IFRC staff inBangladeshwill also engage in a quiz to test their knowledge on what to do and how to address SGBV in their daily work. Pacific National Societies will engage in a Human Rights Film Festival in Suva, where the 16 Days of Activism campaign is integrated into the overall programme.

Preventing gender-based violence and HiV: Hloniphile Zinya's mission to protect youth from sickness and violence

Article and interview by Sindisiwe Mkhize In the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, Hloniphile Zinya is making a significant impact in the fight against HIV and gender-based violence (GBV). Hailing from the vibrant community of Amahlongwa, Hloniphile shares her personal story, shedding light on her experiences, motivations, successes, and the existing gaps in her crucial role as a Youth Officer at the provincial office of the South African Red Cross. “I grew up in an era where young people couldn’t freely talk to their parents or adults about sexual reproductive health or gender-based issues,” she says. “This then contributed to a lot of young people becoming victims [of sexual abuse, violence or of sexually transmitted diseases]. “Then I got a job a moved to town where I was also introduced to Red Cross and became a volunteer,” she adds. “I immediately knew that what Red Cross was providing was exactly what my community needed. I wanted to see change in my community especially the youth. I wanted the young people of my community to realise their strengths.” As a youth officer, Hloniphile supervises seven branches in Kwa-Zulu Natal, or KZN, steering the youth program with the assistance of branch coordinators. Her responsibilities extend to visiting branches, providing implementation support, and conducting vital training sessions on sexual and reproductive health. A deep understanding Through her work, she has gained a profound understanding of the diverse community dynamics and their contributions to issues related to HIV and GBV. “I have also observed that GBV survivors undergo a lot of post trauma that in most cases influences the way they respond to life,” she says. “Most of the survivors are judged by others, thus making it difficult for them to come out and speak about their experiences.” During her experiences, Hloniphile has encountered the harsh realities faced by victims of GBV, noting that post-trauma often influences decisions they make in life. “Men are also facing a lot of abuse, but the society has taught them to never show pain,” she adds, noting that this can have a profound impact on the way they live their lives. Hloniphile reflects on the changing attitudes toward HIV prevention, observing that, despite education efforts primarily targeting rural areas, youth in urban centres neglect preventive measures once they leave for further studies. “Most of the youth is practising unhealthy behaviour,” she laments. “The attention of education was mostly given to rural and semi-rural areas with the perception of that they are deprived of information. But the same youth comes to the city to further their studies and forget all that they have been taught.” Investing in the future When asked about her motivation, Hloniphile passionately expresses her dedication to holistic youth development, emphasizing the transformative power of investing in the health, both physical and mental, of the future leaders. Here’s what she says when asked her more about what gets her up in the morning every day. Q: What motivates you to do what you do? A: I want to see an evident change in behaviour in people. especially young people. It is said that the youth are the future leaders so investing in them holistically so that they are healthy even in the aspects of physical and mental health is worth doing every day. Furthermore, witnessing that change through results, for me is great motivation to keep doing more. Q: What does it mean to you? A: To me, the impact of facilitating change in the lives of young people is very personal. The youth of the rural and semi-rural communities were left out and don’t have access to knowledge and information. Our activities enable youth to have a healthy mind and body, thus giving them far better chances to be trusted future leaders. Q: Why do I feel its important to your community? A: I feel that sooner or later young people are going to get into leadership and when that time comes, they must be holistically equipped. Another thing is that my community has had quite an intense number of GBV cases, and some victims never lived to tell the story. Most communities are still struggling with adherence to medications. Gender equality is still another matter that communities need to be educated on. Gender and sexuality crimes are still rife so I feel the community needs us more and more. Q: What have been some of your biggest successes so far? A: Our successes thus far include establishing a Provincial PSS focal person for counselling, building strong relationships with local municipalities, and becoming a master trainer for health workers, contributing to combating HIV, GBV, and early pregnancies. Q: What are some of your biggest challenges? A: Despite these achievements, there are significant gaps in our efforts, such as an unfunded youth program leading to volunteer loss, the need for more interventions targeting perpetrators of GBV, advocating for early intervention strategies in schools, urging for a SARCS hotline for victims in need, and emphasizing the importance of intensive, beneficiary-friendly education.

Champions of change: Togolese Red Cross Father's Club fights for women’s rights

In the heart of Togo’s capital, Lomé, a group of men are rewriting the narrative of their community. They’re members of the Togblékopé Father's Club, and they’re on a mission to become champions for women. Set up by the Togolese Red Cross in 2013, the Father’s Club seeks to tackle the harmful attitudes and behaviours holding women in the country back. It began when the Togolese Red Cross Society discovered that many pregnant women in Lomé weren’t accessing the healthcare services they needed—in some cases because they didn’t have the means, but in others because their male partners simply weren’t letting them. So volunteers set up the Father’s Club to bring men in the community together and help them understand why it’s important to respect, and stand up for, women’s rights and needs. Ten years on, members are now dubbed ‘Papa Champions’ and proudly advocate for women’s reproductive health, tackle gender-based violence, and act as role models for other men in their community. Sama Abdou Rahime Arabiou, Togolese Red Cross volunteer and President of the Togblékopé Father’s Club, is the driving force behind the initiative and has a heart full of compassion. He believes women are integral to the well-being of every community and deserve to live as freely and happily as men. The first priority for the Father’s Club was reproductive health. Traditionally, women in Togo have had limited access to information about family planning and reproductive health services. So Papa Champions headed out into their community to share trusted health information with men and women. “We do door-to-door sensitization. We talk to men about the benefits of breastfeeding and other health-related activities,” explains Sama. Women in Togblékopé report seeing a big difference in their partners and in community attitudes towards women, thanks to the Papa Champions. “Before, there were some women who couldn’t do anything. They did nothing and were always at home. But through our meetings, their husbands let them start businesses. They now accompany their wives to the hospital for the prenatal consultation for childbirth,” says Azoumi Boukari, a mother from Togblékopé and member of a local Mother’s Club set up by the Togolese Red Cross. Papa Champions are also very active in tackling the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, often running workshops for men on understanding consent and respecting women’s boundaries. They also patrol their neighbourhoods to ensure women can walk safely without fear of harassment, intervening whenever they see a woman in distress and setting a positive example for younger generations. “Since this club was started in our community, I have seen a lot of changes in my husband…They [Papa Champions] have brought joy to our homes,” adds Azoumi. The Togblékopé Father's Club has proven that men can, and should, be powerful allies in the fight for women's rights and gender equality. Not only have they improved the lives of women in their community, they’ve set a precedent for a more equitable society in Togo—in which being a ‘champion’ for women is no longer noteworthy, it’s the norm.

Cut off, holding on, and craving contact

“When you live as an undocumented migrant, one thing that keeps you alive is contact,” says Izzy, a migrant from Sierra Leone whose simple daily encounters with people going through similar struggles have been seriously diminished due to Covid-19. With the pandemic looming over everyone’s daily life,migrants such as Izzy face particular hardships. Cut off even from small jobs and activities,they are not eligible for social benefits that provide the stability needed to cope with a pandemic. “Because these people are considered illegal, they cannot rent a house, they cannot work legally, they don’t have social security, they don’t have bank accounts,” says Joquebede Mesquita of the Company of Friends, which provides practical and legal assistance to undocumented migrants living in Netherlands. Some, she says, end up sleeping in the street, afraid of sharing a room with people who may be infected. “A lot of people want to go home to their parents,” she says. “They say, ‘If we are going to die, we want to die together’.” These stories are a stark reminder: while COVID has been cruel for all of us, it has been catastrophic for migrants.Even in the most developed countries, migrants often don’t have access to critical Covid coping mechanismssuch as mental health care, safe housing(since they often share apartments) or working conditions(with proper hygiene protection measures), according to the IFRC reportLeast protected, most affected: Migrants and refugees facing extraordinary risks during the COVID-19 pandemic.On top of all that, they are even farther from loved ones and moreexposed tomedia disinformation in languages they may not fully master. Still, there are many bright spots amid the challenges. Born in Brazil, Claudia has struggled to find unofficial jobs while taking care of her four-year-old daughter Maria. But she now has a steady job and Maria is enrolled in school, learning Dutch. “She plays with other children and has more contact with kids her own age,” Claudia says. For Izzy, as well, the challenges he and other migrants face have only intensified his desire to something positive for others. “I’ve stayed here a long time and this country has supported me,” says Izzy, who likes to help out at a local shelter and food service for other undocumented migrants in need of a warm meal and a welcoming space. “So, I think I have to give something back.” Claudia, from Minas Gerais, Brazil Originally from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Claudia has been working as anundocumented migrant in The Netherlands for a year. “I feel bad because I am considered illegal here,” says Claudia. “But I have been able to find work here and I feel safer here. I can walk on the streets with my daughter. The quality of life I can give my daughter is better than in Brazil. So, I feel more secure than in Brazil, but less secure because I am illegal”. As evening falls, Claudia and her daughter Maria take a break on a bench in Amsterdam. “Corona has made life difficultbecause so many things are closed,” she says. “There is nowhere to go and I have to spend a lot of time with Maria, sitting in the very small room that I rent.” Children in Netherlands begin school soon after their fourth birthday. “I am very happy now that Maria has started school … I want to learn Dutch but Corona has made it more complicated because a lot of the schools are closed. And with Maria it was difficult to find time to study. And now that she is at school maybe I can learn Dutch at a school in the future.” “Maria has a better life now,” says Claudia. “She plays with other children and has more contact with kids her own age. Maria is very happy.She talks about her new school all the time. She is learning Dutch. The school is very good compared to what we had in my neighbourhood in Brazil.” “Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, it has been a terrible time,” says Joquebede Mesquita of the Company of Friends, which provides practical and legal assistance to undocumented migrants in The Netherlands. “The telephone is ringing all the time. They want to go back to Brazil. They want to go back to their family, to their children.We helped more than 200 people go back to Brazil. Their work has stopped and they don’t have money to pay the rent or to pay for food. A lot of people were sleeping on the street and they were very afraid. People get the Corona virus and some of them are living with up to nine people in a small room. How can they survive? And a lot of people want to go home to their parents. They say, ‘If we are going to die, we want to die together’.” An undocumented migrant from Brazil signs up to receive asupermarket food voucherfrom the Company of Friends organisation in Amsterdam.The vouchers are provided by the The Netherlands Red Crossto help migrants who have fallen on hard times since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. “Because these people are considered illegal, they cannot rent a house, they cannot work legally, they don’t have social security, they don’t have bank accounts,” says Mesquita. “The idea is that they come here for a couple of years, get some money and then return to Brazil, buy a house and have a good life. But most of the people end up staying five or ten years, they don’t learn the language because they work and don’t have time to integrate into the community.” In her kitchen at home, Claudia and a friend unpack somefood donated by the Netherlands Red Cross. “The Brazilian community here in Holland help each other a lot. And if you are a Brazilian woman with a child, they help you even more.” Claudia and her daughter Maria look at a Christmas display in a shop window in Amsterdam. “I don’t know how we will celebrate Christmas. It’s a difficult time. I have to find a new place to live.Normally in Brazil we celebrate with family and friends. But here? I just have Maria”, she says. “My dream is to make some money and then return to Brazil and buy a house for my family. But if the chance came to stay here legally, I would consider it. But at the moment, the future is today. I take each day as it comes.” Izzy, from Sierra Leone After a decade-long civil war engulfed west African nation of Sierra Leone during the 1990s,Izzy felt he had no choice but to leave the country. The conflict took a high personal toll. “I lost my father, my brother, my sister and then later my mother disappeared,” he says. “I still have some uncles there but it’s difficult to know exactly where they are. I’ve been away a long time”. Although his application for asylum in the Netherlands has dragged on for over eleven years, he is confident he will be granted residency soonand he now considers Holland his home. “I miss everything about Sierra Leone,” says Izzy. “The food. The weather. The people. Absolutely everything. But it would be very difficult for me to go back becausethe scars of the war are still there. I was born there. I grew up there and from time to time, you feel this nostalgic. You have to look at your health situation as well and if I went back I would feel overwhelmed to be in my country again. But at the same time, you have this fear of going back and bringing up all the memories again. It’s a difficult thing.” “When you live here as an undocumented migrant,one thing that keeps you alive is contact. When you meet friends, that gives you the energy to do things every day when you wake up. But because of Covid, that has stopped.” “Covid has affected me a lot. First, because I lost a few friends, people that I knew— both Dutch and foreigners – to the disease. But also, and I think more importantly, because of the situation where you have no contact with friends. Things are no longer the way they used to be. You don’t allow people to come and visit you any more. That’s one thing we lost.” Izzy and his friend Kieta from Guinea buy some ingredients for the meal he will prepare for at theWorld House, a place where undocumented migrants can get a warm meal. “There are a lot of Africans in Amsterdam and many of them come to the World House,” says Izzy. “It is a place for refugees and, for most of them, it is their last hope when they have to leave the asylum camps. They have to go somewhere and usually the only place they can go is the World House. We feed them. We help them to find shelter and get back into the asylum application procedures.” “By law I’m not allowed to work or go to university in Netherlands because I still don’t have a residency permit. But I do like to help out becauseI think I have to contribute to society as well. I sometimes cook food for people in the World House, a place where undocumented people can receive help, spend the night and get a plate of warm food.I also help out at the Red Cross sometimes, preparing food packages for undocumented people and people without income. I help at some churches as well, cooking and storytelling, teaching kickboxing, but because of Corona, most of the church activities have been suspended.” “I am doing a course in website design. It is funded by an organisation that helps refugees. I have always had the idea of creating my own website, and maybe doing it for other people as well. So when this opportunity came, I decided to grab it and try to make something of it.I really would like to do something that will contribute to society herebecause I’ve stayed here a long time and this country has supported me, so I think I have to give something back.” -- This story was produced and originally published by the Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine. To learn about the Magazine, and to read more stories like this,click here.

‘Anonymous Clinic’ offers safe haven and caretakers who understand

While Thai culture is relatively open in terms of gender identity, transgender people in Thailand continue to face discrimination and exclusion in many aspects of life. Health care is no exception. “The topic of gender diversity isn’t widely discussed [in Thailand]”, says Piglet, a transgender woman who lives in Bangkok. “Sometimes I’m not able to talk to anyone about it because it makes me feel nervous”. Piglet (not her real name) is a client at the Thai Red Cross Anonymous Clinic, a health centre in the heart of Bangkok designed to help people get health services without fear of being identified or of feeling stigmatized because of her gender or sexual identity. Understanding the challenges The goal is to create an environment where transgender individuals can openly discuss hormone treatment, sexual orientation, and other related issues with healthcare providers who understand their needs and what they are going through. Because transgender people often confront discrimination or a lack of understanding of the unique health needs, they often experience physical, mental and emotional stress when seeking out care. This is especially true during public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, according to recent health studies. In some circumstances, this anxiety may prevent people from getting care or lead them to avoid seeking care. The Thai Red Cross Society has long been dedicated to reaching out to marginalized communities, including transgender people and men who have sex with men, in their efforts to combat HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Services for optimal health The Anonymous Clinic offers a wide range of services, including counselling, testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, hormone monitoring, gender-affirming hormone therapy, neovagina examination, anal cancer screening, and Hepatitis A/B vaccination. “The main mission of the Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre (Anonymous Clinic) is to provide effective prevention measures, widely known as PreP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)”, explains Chanin Suksom, a psychologist at the Anonymous Clinic. “The health services we provide represent an equal opportunity to everyone at a very low cost”. While the clinic was initially established in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, it now plays a critical role in providing gender-affirming services and improving the overall well-being of transgender individuals. “During the past year, we assisted approximately 360 transgender clients, from which over 200 of them accessed services for free”, says Suksom. By offering a comprehensive range of services and fostering a safe and inclusive environment, the Anonymous Clinic empowers transgender individuals to take control of their health and well-being. “People who have come to the clinic for the first time are usually reluctant to talk about their stories. So, we ask informal open-ended questions”, explains Naiyapak Chaipun, a counsellor at the Anonymous Clinic who is herself transgender. “We sometimes chat in a very casual way. We encourage them to take things step by step without forcing them”, she says. For people like Piglet, the Anonymous Clinic has become a safe haven, where people can learn how to better take care of themselves. “I brought my friends to the Anonymous Clinic because they feel shy, and it reminds me of my own experience when I felt frustrated and didn’t know where to go”, she describes. “I think the Anonymous Clinic is a great place for transgender people to access health services. A place where we can love ourselves and where we can learn how to keep ourselves healthy in the long run”. -- This story was produced and originally published by the Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine. To learn about the Magazine, and to read more stories like this,click here.

Transforming lives behind bars in Mexico

Incarceration can be a bleak and isolating experience. But a new project by the Mexican Red Cross is providing detainees a unique opportunity to make a positive impact and find new meaning even within the prison walls. “There aren’t many groups you can join here to help others” says Julian Gonzalez Moreno, one of the project’s participants who has spent 18 years in prison. “So, this is one of the few where you can really help someone.” Sometimes that even means saving someone’s life. Participants in the programme recently recounted an incident where they successfully resuscitated a person who was suffering a heart attack – just eight days after receiving an updated CPR course. The training is part of the Community Health and First Aid project that is being implemented various penitentiary centres across Mexico City by the Mexican Red Cross. By providing training and workshops on first aid, civil protection, and psychosocial support, the project equips prisoners with life-saving skills and empowers them to become first responders inside detention centres. The programme challenges preconceived notions and helps reshape public perceptions towards prisoners. “The programme has also been beneficial in addressing the social stigma they might face,” says Jesus Enrique, a Mexican Red Cross volunteer and participant in the SPAC project who lives in Mexico City. “For us, it is important to share relevant information, and for the rest of the community inside the prison to see that they are trusted when it comes to providing first aid or helping others.” Equipping inmates with life-saving skills Raquel Jaimes, with 14 years of incarceration, expresses her gratitude for the training she has received. “Today, I know how to place a bandage on a wound, and I can do CPR. The Mexican Red Cross has taught me how to provide first aid”, she says. “I can now teach this to my children and to my grandchildren.” The project not only imparts practical skills but also fosters a sense of confidence and self-reliance, project leaders say. Detainees learn to handle emergency situations such as heart attacks, injuries and accidents, ensuring that they are well-prepared to respond swiftly and effectively. For women’s prisons, the SPAC programme provides specific first-aid courses for new-born babies, given that mothers in prisons are allowed to live with their children when they are up to 3 years and 8 months old. Saving lives and fostering change The SPAC training extends beyond individual skill-building. It cultivates a collective sense of responsibility and compassion among inmates, inspiring a shift in mindset, according to inmate Julian Gonzalez Moreno. “When people realize that you care about them, without any self-interest, they start doing the same with others, and you create a domino effect,” he says. -- This story was produced and originally published by the Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine. To learn about the Magazine, and to read more stories like this,click here.