Shattered Lives, Unbroken Spirits

Women in War-Affected Regions

War does not discriminate in its devastation, but its effects on women are particularly harrowing, leaving profound scars. Women in conflict zones face displacement, loss of loved ones, and extreme violence, often while holding families together and maintaining hope amidst chaos. Yet, within the heartbreak of war, they demonstrate remarkable strength, resilience, and leadership.

Their stories, filled with determination to protect and rebuild, are both haunting and inspiring. Such narratives challenge us to listen, learn, and act, ensuring their voices and experiences inform global responses to war.

The Multi-Layered Challenges Faced by Women

Displacement and Loss

As war forces thousands into overcrowded shelters, women are disproportionately impacted by the lack of privacy, basic necessities, and safety. In war affected regions, many families live in displacement camps, where women not only care for children but also attempt to shield them from trauma amid airstrikes and scarcity.

The association Action Aid in their report on women in Gaza mentions of Asmaa, a worker at Wefaq Society for Women and Child Care who recounts how displaced women navigate these harsh environments while supporting others in similar circumstances.

Gender-Based Violence

War amplifies the instances of gender-based violence (GBV). A recent report by UNFPA on GBV in Gaza states four major trends in GBV. Nearly 40 percent of all cases that sought assistance were classified under ‘denial of (access to) resources and opportunitie’ type of GBV. The second most reported type of incident was ‘physical assault’ —28 per cent of all reported cases were classified as physical assault, could only offer relocation as a temporary solution. The third most reported category of GBV was ‘emotional and psychological abuse.’ This type of abuse mainly perpetrated by spouses and family members, towards women and girls (12- 17 years old). The fourth concerning trend was that of ‘sexual abuse and exploitation.’ This phenomenon was particularly common at distribution points.

Psychological Trauma

The mental health toll on women is profound. The stress of repeated displacement, caregiving, and exposure to violence leave many struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Yet, limited healthcare infrastructure in war affected areas means mental health services remain scarce, further marginalizing affected women.

Women as Pillars of Resilience

While conflict disproportionately harms women, it also brings their resilience and leadership to the forefront. Women in war impacted regions often lead grassroots initiatives that provide psychological and logistical support to others. For instance, in Syria, women's groups like the Syrian Women's Initiative for Peace and Democracy have actively advocated for peace and conflict resolution, ensuring their voices are included in negotiations.

Globally, research shows that women’s involvement in peacebuilding leads to more sustainable outcomes. Yet, women are frequently excluded from formal peace negotiations in conflict zones.

What would peace in war affected regions look like if women’s voices were centred in dialogue and decision-making?

The Call for Systemic Change

The experiences of women in conflict zones underscore the pressing need for systemic change. International and regional actors must take concrete steps to address their challenges and recognize their contributions:

Gender-Sensitive Humanitarian Aid: Humanitarian programs must prioritize women’s needs, ensuring access to healthcare, privacy, and mental health services in conflict zones.

Justice Mechanisms: The international community should strengthen accountability systems for gender-based violence, especially in regions where local systems are nonfunctional.

Inclusive Peace Processes: Women’s voices must be included in negotiations, as their perspectives are critical for crafting long-lasting peace.

Amplifying Voices: Global media and advocacy organizations need to amplify the stories of women in war zones, shifting the narrative from oppression to self-determination.

Conclusion

Despite the overwhelming challenges women face in war zones, they stand as symbols of resilience and leadership, often holding together the fragments of their families and communities. However, their strength must not excuse global inaction. As conflicts unfold worldwide, we must ask: “How can humanitarian responses address women’s unique challenges?” “How can the international community help women-led organisations at the local level?” “How do we hold systems accountable for neglecting or exacerbating women’s vulnerabilities?”

Answering these questions is critical for building a just, inclusive future that prioritizes women’s voices and experiences in peacebuilding and recovery.

-Bhavya Gaur