At the 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, I emphasized the vital role of gender-responsive disaster governance. Women and girls are not just victims; they are leaders and agents of change. Disasters disproportionately impact marginalized communities, particularly women, girls, persons with disabilities, and indigenous peoples who face unique challenges in these crises.
It is essential to provide them with the necessary resources, education, and leadership opportunities to transform their visions into reality. We must ensure that early warning systems, evacuation procedures, and recovery plans are accessible to all, removing barriers to participation. Let us commit to amplifying the voices of those often unheard—women, girls, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
Together, we can build a more resilient future, ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey toward recovery and hope.
