Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Unsung Heroines: Women And Natural Disasters, Mary Schwoebel

Conflict Resolution Studies Faculty Articles

Although women play crucial parts in disaster preparedness, mitigation, and recovery, their roles in disasters are often overlooked or ignored. However, history shows that when disasters strike, women sometimes form spontaneous associations to assist relief and recovery efforts. At other times, women's organizations direct their resources for disaster relief and recovery. Women's organizations also partner with international disaster assistance agencies to expedite relief efforts. Are women more vulnerable to disasters? What are women's capabilities for responding to disasters? What can international organizations do to integrate women more effectively into disaster planning and recovery? Vulnerabilities and Risks The circumstances of women's …