Global Disasters & Gender-Based Violence
During any disaster a number of hardships hit homes, from economic hardships to losses in the family. Within these confusing times also comes the emotions behind the confusion and upset. Many people become upset or frustrated with their lives, and while some individuals know how to control these emotions, others take these frustrations out in unhealthy methods. Sexual and domestic violence rates during any sort of worldly disaster tend to go up due to the stress of the abuser, the vulnerability of the survivor, and the lack of available resources during the time. It is important to recognize the type of situations that can instigate higher rates of violence and how once can help prevent these situations.
Natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes can be detrimental in many ways. These horrific situations can add stress to one’s daily life because of the detriments they can bring from physical damage to the shutdown of cities. During these stressful times it is natural to be angry or emotional, but the extent of abuse that is instigated from the strains is nauseating. A few examples of natural disasters and increase in domestic and sexual violence include:
Cyclone Amphan (2020): In Bangladesh, Cyclone Amphan made landfall and impacted millions of people. After the harsh detrimental effects, many women were left vulnerable and at greater risk of abuse because of the patriarchal society that exists in Bangladesh. During a study taken after the disaster, it was found that 65% of respondents stated that gender-based violence had increased, and 17% of these respondents stated the increase dealt with sexual violence (UN Women).
Haiti Earthquake (2010): One of the world’s most deadliest disasters in recent years includes the 2010 Haiti Earthquake. During this awful event, cities were severely impacted and the populations dropped by hundreds of thousands. Many individuals were left homeless and vulnerable as well, allowing for women to become easy targets of gender-based violence.
Hurricane Katrina (2005): Most Americans are aware of one of the most horrific hurricanes to hit the country, Hurricane Katrina. This intense storm hit Louisiana and destroyed thousands of homes. During this awful time, 47 cases of sexual assault were reported alone. Within these statistics, 93.2% of the 47 were females and 95% were disaster victims. What is even more upsetting about these statistics is that over 30% of the cases took place in a shelter, where one seeks habitat and safety during rough times.
Unfortunately, the effects of natural disasters are never precisely predictable and therefore we must prepare for anything coming our way. While all types of gender-based violence should be outlawed, we must use methods of preparation for natural disasters until legislation comes into power about these important topics. In case of vulnerability it is important for us to prepare well equipped shelters and accessible resources for women to utilize. One can bring old clothes or items such as blankets to shelters to donate for those who may need to leave dangerous home situations. Another way to assist could be to offer support hotlines for anyone who may be struggling. Whether one might have lost their home or even lost their job due to their work building being destroyed, having someone to talk to can help alleviate stress and is a great way to cope healthily. Finally, having guidelines for preparation of disasters can be key! Education of what to do in emergency situations can lower the stress of anyone in the situation and also offer other outlets to do in times of stress instead of resorting to abuse.
If you are survivors of gender-based violence, please know that we believe and support you. If you are in need of support or resources, please visit Survivors.org!
Written By: Kelli Green, PAVE’s Fall 2021 Outreach Intern
Resources:
UN WOMEN ON Cyclone Amphan: https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/RGA%20Cyclone%20Amphan%20Bangladesh.pdf
Hurricane Katrina: https://www.nedbarnett.com/sexual-assaults-increase-hurricane-harvey/
Haiti Earthquake: https://scholarlycommons.law.emory.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1035&context=eilr
