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Violence Against Women Increases in Wake of Tsunami
Friday, January 14, 2005 9:55 AM
In the wake of the devastating tsunami that has claimed the lives of over 150,000 people, new threats to the safety of women in the region are emerging. There have been numerous reports of rape and violence against women and children, and due to a lack of personal hygiene products and maternal care, women also face an increased risk of health problems. There are several groups working hard to raise funds and public awareness of the threats to the safety and well-being of women. Women’s rights groups working together in Sri Lanka issued a written appeal calling for public attention to serious issues concerning women’s safety which have yet to be addressed by relief efforts. The groups expressed appreciation for the outpouring of international aid efforts, but are urging for those efforts to address violence against women and the needs of vulnerable communities. Some of the most egregious reports of violence include incidents of rape, gang rape, molestation, and other physical abuse of women and girls during unsupervised rescue operations and while they are residing in temporary shelters. Compiled from: “As Tsunami Recedes, Women’s Risks Appear,” Corrie Pikul, Women’s eNews, 7 Jan. 2005.
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