Protecting Vulnerable Population During Time of Disasters

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Social Affairs Minister Khofifah Indar Parawansa, speaking at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) seminar to mark the upcoming World Population Day, said that the Indonesian Government was committed to protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women, girls and youth.

The theme for this year's event of World Population Day, which falls on July 11, is one that relates well with Indonesia, "Vulnerable Populations in Emergencies".

According to the Natural Disaster Management Agency Data, in 2014, a total of 1559 disasters were recorded across the country. These disasters caused 490 deaths and affected the lives of two million people. Thousands were displaced, while many other lost their loved ones, homes and possessions.

In times of humanitarian emergencies, the vulnerability of women, girls and young people often increased. Girls and women for example, face greater risk of abuse, sexual exploitation, violence, forced marriage, reproductive health-related illnesses, and death due to the lack of protection and an absence of aid delivery to their needs.

"When a crisis strikes, humanitarian response must be swift and adaptable to the needs of affected populations," said Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, UNFPA's Executive Director. "Women and young people may especially require targeted support, and aid must be sustained from the onset of an emergency until recovery."

MAHINDA ARKYASA