Emergencies , Refugees

Be a champion for women and girls

You have the power to help protect the rights of the most vulnerable, and to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to participate in effective programs that create lasting and continuous change.

Donate now

Right now, some of the most at risk women and girls in the world are those living in places affected by conflict and crisis.

Estimates suggest that over 80 percent of people displaced by conflict and disasters are women, children and young people. When crisis hits, existing inequalities increase the risks for women and girls, and traditional systems to protect the most vulnerable break down.

In 2015, conflict, disaster and persecution forced 65.3 million people to flee their homes – that’s more than two-and-a-half times Australia’s population. We’re hearing about it in the news, and it’s dividing opinions – but behind the politics and controversy are people just like you and me.

There’s never been a more critical time to act.

The violence in Syria is one of the biggest drivers for this mass displacement – and the conflict is taking its greatest toll on women and children. Many mothers sacrifice their own health to ensure their children are fed and receive proper medical care. Some are forced to seek work that puts them at risk of harassment and exploitation.

For some families, resorting to child labour and early marriage seems like the only way to ensure the survival and protection of their children. But just as these breakdowns can increase vulnerability, they can also provide opportunity for empowerment. By tailoring emergency response programs to their specific needs and encouraging their active participation, World Vision is championing change for women and girls affected by crisis and conflict.

 

Be a champion for women and girls

 

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Refugee women like Ghaliya have been trained as football coaches, helping them build new skills while they also provide support for the girls in their teams. Photos by Suzy Sainovski/World Vision

Helping Syrian refugee women and girls to kick goals

One example is a football program in Azraq refugee camp. It’s investing in the mental health and physical wellbeing of young refugees. World Vision has built two football pitches in the camp in Jordan, home to over 25,000 Syrian refugees. It’s already helping to break down cultural gender barriers. For many girls, like 10-year-old Zaynab, this is the first time they’ve ever played football.

On the surface it might not seem like much – but programs like this provide a much-needed outlet for refugee kids. The football league is a safe and constructive activity that lets kids like Zaynab have fun and enjoy their right to play, while also receiving emotional support, building life skills and lowering their risk of exploitation.

It’s also providing leadership opportunities for refugee women like Raja. For her, becoming a football coach is an exciting chance to learn new skills and invest in the lives of children.

10-year-old refugee Zaynab and her friends have found their newest hobby: football!

You have the power to help protect the rights of the most vulnerable, and to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to participate in effective programs that create lasting and continuous change.

Be a champion for women and girls
With your partnership, World Vision can continue to empower women and girls affected by crisis and conflict.
Donate now

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