Australia Supports Dignity Kits for Flood-Affected Women and Girls in Laos

Assistance is being provided in Laos in the form of "dignity kits" to women and girls affected by recent flooding. This initiative is supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and aims to help affected women and girls access essential hygiene and personal items during the emergency and recovery period. Flooding has disrupted access to essential services in affected communities, while increasing risks related to health, protection, and personal safety. Each dignity kit contains essential personal and menstrual hygiene items and other supplies adapted to the needs of women and girls in emergency situations. The distribution also provides an opportunity to connect affected communities with information and available services on sexual and reproductive health, prevention and response to gender-based violence, and emergency referral and other support services. Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women’s Union (LWU), stated that the LWU would work closely with UNFPA and local authorities through its community networks to ensure the assistance reaches those most in need and helps protect the health, safety, and dignity of women and girls during recovery. Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR, noted that humanitarian emergencies do not affect everyone in the same way, and that women and girls may face greater challenges in accessing hygiene supplies, health services, and protection. He said the provision of dignity kits is part of UNFPA’s broader commitment to ensuring their specific needs and rights are addressed throughout emergency response and recovery. Australian Ambassador to Lao PDR, Megan Jones, said that Australia stands with communities affected by flooding and that the support reflects its commitment to ensuring women and girls are not overlooked during emergencies. This initiative is part of a longstanding partnership between UNFPA, the Lao Women’s Union, and Australia to support the health, protection, and rights of women and girls in Laos. It also contributes to ensuring that their needs are incorporated into emergency preparedness and response and that affected communities can access essential information, supplies, and services during recovery.