Rising global conflicts, the lingering economic impacts of COVID-19, market inflation, and the growing effects of climate change are compounding global crises. Those crises disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities, especially women and girls.
Addressing the unprecedented and overwhelming humanitarian crises requires listening to the needs of those affected the most. We spoke with over 9,500 people from 12 countries facing crises - the large majority of whom were women - to better understand the challenges they are facing and the support they need.
What are women telling us?
- Crises are compounding: Women are reporting climate change, food insecurity, and conflict as the top three crises that drive impact on livelihood, food security, and safety.
- Impact on livelihood and food security continue to be the top two reported impacts: 78% of women and 67% of men reported an impact on their livelihood. 74% of women and 72% of men reported an impact on food security. Women are more likely to eat less and sell their assets than men. Soaring food prices and inflation on essential commodities are significant factors that also affect access and availability of food.
- Safety has overtaken mental health as one of the biggest impact areas: 47% of women and 62% of men reported an impact on their safety. In 2020 and 2021, mental health was the third prioritized impact area; in 2023, however, more women and men prioritized safety.
Read the Her Voice report to learn more about all the struggles and solutions participants have shared with us.