KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Jamaica continues recovery efforts following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network (JYAN) is urging national stakeholders to prioritise the safety and protection of women and girls, following the passing of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW) on Tuesday.

JYAN warns that while many Jamaicans are facing collective hardship, the risks of violence and abuse, particularly for women and children, often increase in the aftermath of disasters. The organisation noted that global data consistently show heightened vulnerability during these periods, even as advocacy is sometimes scaled back due to national crises.

“As we coordinate the country’s relief efforts, protecting our women and girls from violence in all its forms must be a key part of the response,” the group stated. It added that many women have lost their homes, livelihoods and access to essential resources that can significantly raise the risk of exploitation and abuse.

Executive Director Shannique Bowden stressed that integrating gender and security considerations into the recovery strategy is essential.

“This is not to suggest that women are more important than men in the recovery response, but to recognise the specific vulnerabilities that must inform our national response strategy,” Bowden said. She noted that because many Jamaican households are led by women, gender-sensitive approaches to citizen security and national recovery are critical to ensuring the safety of families.

JYAN is calling on government agencies, community groups and the public to remain vigilant, report suspected cases of abuse and offer support where possible. The organisation also highlighted the importance of addressing the specific needs of women and girls during disaster recovery such as access to food, clothing, menstrual products, safe shelter, financial support, and medical care, including sexual and reproductive health services.

“Disasters expose and exacerbate existing vulnerabilities,” the organisation noted. “As a nation, we must be united and prioritise protecting those vulnerable among us. It is our duty to our country and to our neighbours.”