Scots Aid Worker On Nepal Women's Fears

Women and young girls in Nepal are living in fear of abuse and sexual assault, 3 months after 2 earthquakes devestated the country.

A Scottish aid worker says they're still living in makeshift shelters without privacy or security, as their husbands and sons have left to find work. The death toll from the disasters stands at around 8,500, and more are at risk as access to clean water and sanitation remains difficult.

Lily Thapa, Executive Director of Oxfam's partner Women for Human Rights, said: "With the technical and financial support from Oxfam, WHR is now constructing centres for women in eight villages of three districts to provide a common platform where women can share and learn about risks. 

"Through the project, WHR is also providing psychosocial support and assistance to acquire legal documents such as Earthquake ID cards and citizenship certificates. We are also providing medical and other referral services and helping women to participate in cash-for-work schemes as well as recovery and reconstruction programmes."

Jenny Lamb is a water and sanitation engineer advisor for Oxfam, who spent 5 weeks in the country. She says women are now particularly vulnerable:

Oxfam has put gender issues at the core of its work in all the three sectors (water and sanitation; food security and livelihoods; and shelter) of its earthquake response programme. They are working with WHR and district authorities to build women’s leadership and meaningful involvement in the relief and recovery efforts through the Women Centres.