August 2, 2024
Doctors of the World International Network and Mehad call for urgent action to prevent funding cuts from halting essential health programs in Syria
Today we’re highlighting the women humanitarian workers risking their lives to provide support for those impacted by conflict & crisis
Humanitarian workers are on the front lines of crises everyday
Many of them risk their lives daily to provide support to those in need in their communities, often in extremely difficult circumstances.
This is especially true for women humanitarian workers, who operate in contexts where their rights are at times restricted or infringed upon.
Whether it’s in Ethiopia, Syria, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Central African Republic, Yemen, or the Democratic Republic of Congo, these women strive to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable communities
Dr. Syeda Mushrefa Jahan – GBV Coordinator, Bangladesh
“In patriarchal societies, often the domestic abuse of women is accepted as the norm. The greatest motivation in my work is that I am increasing awareness about gender-based violence in this community in order to prevent it and reduce it. One of my biggest challenges in my work is changing how men perceive women, because I am a woman so why should they listen to me?”
Wafa’a Al Saidy – General Coordinator, Yemen
“I feel incredibly lucky to be on the side that is providing help rather than being on the side that is in need of help. There are many women, especially mothers, who are really suffering in Yemen due to this war. The feeling that I am making a difference, even a small one, to support families in such dire situations keeps me motivated.”
Aneela Tahir – Pharmacist, Pakistan
“As Nelson Mandela once said, ”What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” This quote really inspires me. Doctors of the World provides us with the platform to make a difference in other people’s lives. Working as a pharmacist on drug procurement, supply, and management provides me with the satisfaction that I am providing essential drugs to those in need.”
Lucille Terré – Program Coordinator, Central African Republic
“As a feminist, I think that focusing on individual and collective wellbeing is a key strategy in enabling women humanitarian professionals, especially national staff. It helps us to build up personal resilience and maintain women’s participation in humanitarian work. Our involvement in this work is key if we want to achieve our goals.”
Anne Kamel – Emergency Medical Coordinator
“Being a humanitarian worker is extremely fulfilling work. It is a way to strengthen the links between different communities and individuals around the world. Although the people I meet often have nothing, they remain filled with hope.”
Meaza Semaw – Medical Coordinator, Ethiopia
“At some point in my life it became clear to me that if I wanted to see things changed, I had to become part of that change. So, here I am, choosing courage over comfort every single day.”
Théodorine Feiganazoui – Medical Coordinator, Central African Republic
“Working in the humanitarian world, enables me to advocate for women’s rights within our society and to help women living in difficult circumstances to become survivors and to take control of their lives.”