PHNOM PENH, Sept. 2 (Xinhua) -- To ensure the well-being of the most-at-risk women and girls, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has provided 900 dignity kits for distribution in Cambodia, said a press release on Tuesday.
This initiative addresses the needs of women and girls impacted by displacement, the press release said, adding that during humanitarian emergencies, women and girls face heightened risks, including the dangers of violence and exploitation, lack of access to water and sanitation and interrupted services and support.
During emergencies, often the health and hygiene needs of women and girls can be overlooked, it said, adding that the UNFPA is collaborating with key partners to ensure that dignity kits are provided to those who need them the most.
The kits will be given out to the most-at-risk women and girls through the Cambodian Red Cross and provincial departments of women's affairs.
Dignity kits are designed to meet the unique needs of women and girls in emergency and disaster situations. Each kit contains essential hygiene supplies, clothing, and vital information on sexual and reproductive health and rights and information on where to get help if women experience violence.
"During difficult times, women and girls' health needs remain -- including their menstrual health and hygiene needs," Sandra Bernklau, UNFPA Cambodia representative, said.
"Dignity kits help women and girls at a time when they need support -- they provide a few essential supplies to help them during these difficult periods," she added.
Bernklau said this effort highlights UNFPA's commitment to ensuring access to vital sexual and reproductive health services and protecting women and girls affected by disasters, crises, and displacement. ■