Women and girls: Forces for creating disaster-resilient societies

On October 13th, the International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) commemorates the millions of women and girls who make their communities more resilient to disasters and climate risks. This internationally recognized day aims to not only celebrate the contribution that women and girls are making on disasters, highlight hindrances that women and girls face in their ability to contribute to disaster risk reduction and management processes, but also change the perception that women and girls are only victims. Through engaging practitioners and academics to share stories of actions and initiatives in disaster risk reduction and recovery by women and girls across the world, this conference will raise awareness about the current role of women and girls.

Panelists include: Leora Ward, International Rescue Committee; Sarah Williamson, Humanitarian Consultant; Jane Henrici, The Institute for Women's Policy Research; Margaret Arnold, World Bank; and Andrea Burniske, Save the Children.

Agenda

9:00am - 9:15am: Opening Remarks: Dr. Barbara Miller, Director of the Global Gender Program, Elliot School of International Affairs, George Washington University

9:15am - 10:15am: First Panel: Women’s Leadership in Disaster Preparedness and Recovery

10:15am - 10:45am: Coffee and Networking Break

10:45am - 11:45am: Second Panel: Harnessing Women’s Agency in Disaster Reduction and Recovery

11:45am - 12:00pm: Final Remarks