Brazil’s Ministry of Women, in partnership with UN Women and civil society representatives, has issued “Guidelines for the Protection of Women and Girls in Climate Emergency Situations” to the government of Rio Grande do Sul. This document provides recommendations for rescue, care, and referral actions in climate emergencies, focusing on women and girls who are disproportionately affected due to gender inequalities, structural racism, and economic disparities.
Key Points:
Document Highlights: Based on international experiences and national insights, the guidelines aim to address the unique needs of women and girls during climate emergencies and humanitarian crises. The guidelines are meant for use by government bodies, social organizations, and volunteers.
Rescue and Care Recommendations: The document emphasizes the importance of family-centered rescue efforts and post-rescue care that considers gender identity, race, and disabilities. Special attention is given to pregnant and postpartum women, elderly women, and those with disabilities.
Shelter and Violence Prevention: Exclusive shelters for women and their children are recommended, along with information on emergency contacts for violence cases. Specialized services should maintain operations, and urgent protective measures should be accessible for victims of domestic violence.
Health and Safety: Ensuring access to health services, including emergency contraception and STI prophylaxis, is crucial. The guidelines also suggest discreet information desks in public places to offer support without raising suspicion.
Social Participation: Various entities, including legal, feminist, and human rights organizations, contributed to the guidelines, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach.
Implementation in Rio Grande do Sul
Emergency Protocol Development: On May 12, the Ministry of Women visited Rio Grande do Sul to address reports of sexual abuse in shelters and to discuss the creation of an emergency protocol focused on women. Minister Cida Gonçalves led the delegation, which met with local authorities and social movements.
Immediate Actions: The National Secretary for Economic Autonomy and Care Policy, Rosane Silva, visited shelters and met with government and social representatives to address the needs of affected women. A specific flow for reporting violence against women has been established, with cases forwarded to the Center for Combating Domestic Violence of the Public Ministry of Rio Grande do Sul.
For more details, access the full document here.
Soledad Quartucci | CEO/Founder, Latina Republic
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