(KPL) The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on Oct 25 handed over dignity kits valued at US$ 20,200 (466 units) to the Lao Women’s Union (LWU) to support flood-affected areas in Luang Prabang, Xayaboury, and Luang Namtha provinces. This initiative has been made possible through the generous support of the Australian Government.

This year, severe flooding impacted several northern provinces, including Bokeo, Luang Namtha, Xayaboury, Luang Prabang, Huaphan, and Vientiane. In response, UNFPA, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, distributed 200 dignity kits to women and girls in the affected areas.

Today's handover complements these previous efforts and addresses the increasing needs of women and girls.

Field assessments conducted by a national disaster response team—comprising government ministries, NGOs, and UN agencies—identified urgent needs, including clothing, portable lights, hygiene supplies, sanitary pads, and information on services to mitigate gender-based violence (GBV) risks.

The handover of these essential items represents a key milestone in addressing both immediate and long-term responses to gender-based violence in humanitarian situations.

In the wake of floods and other emergencies, UNFPA's dignity kits are a vital lifeline for women and girls. These kits include crucial supplies that are often overlooked amid urgent needs for safety, food, and water.

They empower individuals to feel safe and uphold their dignity during challenging times. Beyond addressing hygiene needs, dignity kits enhance mobility and foster a sense of self-esteem. They promote feelings of self-worth and self-respect, facilitate social participation, and provide a sense of identity. Ultimately, dignity kits extend far beyond mere material assistance; they help individuals reclaim their dignity and agency.

Ms. Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women’s Union, stated, “The dignity kits we are distributing today are essential for supporting women and girls affected by the floods. These kits provide vital hygiene products, clean clothing, and safety items that help restore dignity and promote health in challenging circumstances. They reflect our commitment to ensuring that every individual can maintain their well-being and resilience during this difficult time.”

Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative, emphasized, “While our primary focus is on women of reproductive age and girls, dignity kits are designed in accordance with the local context to match the needs of  a diverse range of target groups, including adolescent boys, pregnant and lactating women, newborns, newlyweds, people living with HIV/AIDS, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. Dignity kits serve as an entry point to engage hard-to-reach communities, facilitating access to essential sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and mental health services. Importantly, they convey to recipients that they are remembered and cared for during difficult times, reinforcing their sense of self-worth and dignity.”

Ms. Megan Jones, Australia’s Ambassador to the Lao PDR, said: “As Australia continues to strengthen its partnership with the Lao PDR, we are committed to supporting initiatives that promote empowerment and resilience. Our strategy focuses on sustainable development, enhancing livelihoods, and building community resilience. In times like these, it is essential that we come together to lend our support and ensure that no one is left behind.”

This collaborative effort highlights the strong commitment of UNFPA, the Lao Women’s Union, and Australia to promote the health, safety, and dignity of women and girls in Lao PDR across all contexts. It reflects the partners' dedicated efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence and work towards a future where every woman and girl can live free from violence, safe and with dignity.

KPL