Nepal is highly vulnerable to natural calamities such as floods, landslides and earthquakes that pose significant threats to community safety and stability. The recent 5.7 magnitude earthquake on November 3, 2023, in Jajarkot District,
Karnali Province, highlighted the severe impact with 26,557 households fully damaged, 35,455 households partially damaged and over 150 lives lost. The earthquake resulted in significant property loss, damage to public infrastructures
and services, a decline in socio-economic status and deprivation of basic needs. These impacts have profoundly affected women from diverse backgrounds, exacerbating pre-existing inequalities and impacting their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and mental health. There has been an increase in sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) and disruptions in healthcare infrastructure have limited access to crucial SRH services like contraceptives and maternal care.
Women and girls face increased risks of sexual and reproductive health issues due to the breakdown of social structures and support systems. Additionally, the patriarchal structure controlling sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) of women and girls limits their control over and decision-making about their own bodies, which is exacerbated in the post-disaster period. Addressing SRH needs becomes crucial in these scenarios, prioritizing thenprovision of reproductive health services, safe delivery facilities, access to contraceptives, and creating safe spaces for women and girls.
.png)