How anticipatory action can empower women in disaster-prone areas

By Emily Myers, Katrina Kosec, Jordan Kyle, Agnes Quisumbing, Teresa Gonzales, Ana Madero, Caitlin Mittrick, and Amica Rapadas

December 12, 2024

As the planet warms, climate-driven disasters are becoming more frequent and severe worldwide. These events pose increased risks to vulnerable communities and groups, particularly women and girls, who face disproportionate challenges in their aftermath. Disasters often exacerbate existing gender inequalities-limiting women's access to food and essential services, reducing their physical safety and decision-making power, and increasing time poverty. These impacts, compounded by gendered social norms, make recovery from disaster significantly harder for women.

Policymakers increasingly recognize the value of anticipatory action (AA)-providing predetermined support to mitigate disaster impacts before they occur. For example, anticipatory action programs might distribute cash and emergency supplies to vulnerable communities before a predicted flood, or distribute drought-resistance seeds before a dry season. However, many AA programs fail to adequately address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of women, girls, and other marginalized groups, missing opportunities to promote gender equality.