Domestic Violence and Disasters: Building Capacity of Emergency Response Systems to Address Gender-Based Violence

Domestic Violence and Disasters: Building Capacity of Emergency Response Systems to Address Gender-Based Violence

Lessons learned for improving response during and after disasters

Disasters are not “natural” but a consequence of how communities are structured and resources are allocated. Addressing domestic violence (DV) in disaster settings requires a comprehensive approach that considers the unique challenges DV survivors face in every phase of disaster management. This webinar explores how we can build the capacity of emergency response systems to consider the unique challenges for DV survivors and DV services and the ways in which integrating gender perspectives, strengthening community education, and reinforcing support systems can create safer, more equitable disaster responses. Participants will learn practical strategies for policy integration, the importance of responder training, the importance of data collection, and community engagement to mitigate risks and promote resilience. The session aims to show how equitable disaster risk reduction (DRR) practices can reduce vulnerabilities, protect survivors, and build more inclusive systems of care and response.  

Presenters: 

Jennifer Horney, PhD, MPH, CPH, Department of Epidemiology, University of Delaware

Lauren C. Camphausen, MS, Department of Epidemiology, University of Delaware

Susan Miller, PhD, MA, Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, University of Delaware

Ruth Fleury-Steiner, PhD, Dept of Human Development & Family Science, University of Delaware

This is the second in a two-part series.

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