Afetlerde Kadınların Kırılganlıklarının Güçlendirilmesi Stratejileri
Strategies to Strengthen Women’s Vulnerability During Disaster

Author(s): Ayşe Handan Dökmeci
Subject(s): Gender Studies
Published by: Transnational Press London
Keywords: Women; disaster; vulnerability; resilience; disaster management;
Summary/Abstract: Natural or man-made disasters can affect all segments of societies, but these effects differ among individuals. It is known that individuals characterized as vulnerable and fragile in the society, especially women, children, elderly and disabled people, are affected by disasters at higher rates. The vulnerability of these individuals to disasters leads to their low capacity to adapt to the environment and survive after the disaster. Their capacity to protect themselves before, during or after disasters is more limited and they are at greater risk for poor physical and psychological health outcomes after disasters. Considering the gender factor, it has been observed that women are more affected by disasters than men. Women’s physical, mental and social vulnerability makes them more vulnerable in disasters. In disaster risk reduction studies, it has long been recognized that gender inequality is a systemic part of risk. While some steps have been taken to increase resilience and strengthen women’s leadership in local governments, much more work remains to be done. Considering climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global crises, it is important to remember that gender inequality has always hindered global progress and could pose a greater threat if not addressed. In conclusion, it is important that no individual is left behind in combating natural disasters and ensuring sustainable development. Empowerment of women who are in vulnerable and fragile groups and who are exposed to gender discrimination is very important in terms of disaster management.

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