CALL: Equality a 'Must'

GENDER equality must be promoted in disaster risk reduction activities.

This was the call made by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights gender and conflict adviser Indai Sajor while addressing regional participants at a workshop by Fiji Women's Crisis Centre on eliminating violence against women.

Ms Sajor said gender analysis must be incorporated in the assessment of disaster risks, impacts and needs.

"Women's needs have to be addressed and their knowledge in disaster reduction and recovery policies, plans and programs needs to be valued," she said.

She also called for the strengthening of women's networks and organisations to facilitate women's active engagement in disaster risk reduction.

Ms Sajor stressed the importance of non-government organisations participation in disaster management so disaster responses to men and women were appropriately delivered.

"There is a need to know social structures so that once you have proper understanding on how to mobilise, you can be more organised."

It's recommended that you have an assessment ahead of the probable impact," she said.

She said when women's needs in disaster reduction were addressed, it later meant that the level of experience endured during and after a disaster was improved.

Participants were also urged to ensure women's meaningful participation in formal and informal peace processes. They were advised to bring a gender perspective to the design and implementation of peace missions and agreements.