A connection between horses, donkeys and mules and women in disasters

Hi everyone!

In last months newsletter I highlighted the collaborative approach we are taking to our Global Research Programme and provided an update on our exciting project, which will explore the current state of policy in relation to the inclusion of working animals in #DisasterRiskManagement (DRM), and the evidence needs of decision makers such as policy makers and community leaders.

This month I would like to bring our attention back to the issue and why more evidence is needed on the important topic of the role and welfare of #WorkingEquids in, and for, DRM.

In many communities that Brooke works with, horses, donkeys and mules are integral to the lives of women. They reduce the work burden for women such as carrying water and firewood and they support income generation by transporting goods and people to and from markets. Horses, donkeys and mules also have an important social role, they are often lent to community members, which strengthens relationships and social status. The important roles that equids play is often invisible in policies, meaning they are unprotected.

The role that equids play in the lives of women before, during and after a disaster, such as a flood or drought, appears not to be evidenced. Using a co-designed and collaborative approach, Brooke and University College London's research programme will aim to explore this and the barriers that women face in providing their animals with appropriate husbandry. Understanding and documenting the role they play, and the perceptions of women will help NGOs like Brooke to work with communities and policy makers to ensure that the welfare of working horses, donkeys and mules is considered in all stages of DRM, ensuring this in turn protects women from losing their animals, which for them are livelihood and social assets.

In November we will be able to share the outputs from our policy and decision maker analysis (mentioned in last month’s newsletter ). This will help inform decisions and planning for the remainder of the Global Research Programme focused on the role and welfare of working equids in DRM.

If you would like to collaborate with Brooke and UCL on any aspect of the Global Research Programme, or have a particular interest in the connection between women and working animals, please do get in touch with Gemma Carder , Senior Manager for Global Research.