International women’s day 2024: Najah Almugahed, Gender Protection and Inclusion Advisor at Islamic Relief examines how the needs vs rights debate applies to women in humanitarian crises, calling for more aid to cover women’s basic needs.

After nearly a decade residing away from home, I managed to go back for a visit last year. Home is Yemen, which is experiencing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Despite the joy of reuniting with family and friends, witnessing the devastation of basic services, extreme poverty and higher rates of inequality left its mark on my heart. The reality painted a grim picture of a population teetering on the brink of famine, with two-thirds in dire need of humanitarian assistance and protection services, according to UNHCR.

In addition to these challenges, I observed a subtle shift in gender roles. Women in Yemen are increasingly taking on ‘productive’ roles – engaging in income-generating activities and breaking into traditionally male-dominated jobs such as waitressing or retail. However, this shift in Yemen and elsewhere is often sparked by necessity, rather than a genuine commitment to equal rights and opportunities. Even with expanded responsibilities, women continue to shoulder the traditional roles of homemaking and caregiving without a corresponding reduction in expectations.

Women in humanitarian crises

Wars, conflicts, and natural disasters affect everyone in society, but they also exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, impacting women and girls differently. Women are compelled to fill in for their absent male providers, often without any additional support or protective systems and policies. This exposure might increase their risks of gender-based and sexual exploitation and abuse.

We’re seeing horrific figures emerge from the ongoing conflict in Sudan, showing that women and girls are being targeted with sexual violence and rape. The UN Human Rights Office in Sudan has received reports of 21 incidents of conflict-related sexual violence against at least 57 women and girls. The actual number is thought to be much higher as parts of the country remain challenging to access, and there is a lot of social stigma associated with reporting sexual violence.

In Syria and Yemen, we’ve seen the number of early marriages, also known as child marriages, increase during conflict. Rates are 4 times higher in Syria now than before the crisis began. In Yemen, rates have increased from 32% to 52% in recent years, as dowries have increased and poor families use early marriages as a coping mechanism to survive, using dowries to feed other family members.

In Gaza, more than 30,000 people have been killed since October, and 70% of them are women and children. Nearly 2 million people, including 1 million women and girls, are currently displaced. Pregnant and lactating women are at a particular risk of malnutrition for them and their babies with limited to no access to health care. Islamic Relief staff in Gaza report pregnant women enduring C-sections without anaesthetic or painkillers, newborn infants starving to death, and a shortage of menstrual hygiene materials leading to women and girls developing infections as they resort to using any scraps of cloth or torn clothing they can find.

A ‘gendered’ humanitarian response

As humanitarian organisations like Islamic Relief are expected to respond to the many ongoing crises around the world, the sector must consider a ‘gendered’ response. This means delivering aid programmes in an equitable form, prioritising the ones who are most in need.

We must identify and respond to the distinct needs of people experiencing crises through direct and meaningful participation in designing and implementing projects, focusing on the most vulnerable groups. It is the first step to providing access to essential services for women and children, including pregnant and lactating women, older women, and women and girls with disabilities. This short-term response aligns with the long-term goal of achieving gender equality and fulfilling human potential.

Islamic Relief prioritises women and girls in our humanitarian response. We specifically focus on supporting families headed by women through initiatives such as orphan-sponsorship programmes, or unconditional cash, and livelihoods opportunities for women.

Using a protective and inclusive framework ensures that women and girls’ needs are central to Islamic Relief’s response, where we explore all the potential risks and barriers to accessing services and ensure the most vulnerable groups have access to programmes. It is exemplified by initiatives such as mobile clinic services in northwest Syria that allows pregnant and lactating women and others to benefit from health services without additional costs.

Needs vs rights debate

There exists a nuanced debate between individuals’ needs and rights, particularly in a humanitarian context. It centres on whether addressing basic needs should precede ensuring fundamental rights. While there is consensus that immediate needs must be urgently met, the debate arises when initial emergency responses move into phases that include development work, in which both basic needs and fundamental rights are crucial.

Gender equality and empowering women and girls to fulfil their human potential is both a fundamental right and a necessity in order for societies to prosper. Within humanitarian programming, there is a spectrum for a ‘gendered’ response, starting with providing access to basic services and progressing into advocating for transformative gender equality rights.

While considering the rights of women and girls, it is also essential to acknowledge that, for many in humanitarian crises, conversations about gender equality might seem like a luxury. Honing into providing access to basic needs for women and girls is more relatable to their lived realities. Humanitarian projects should have long-term impact and address gender inequality; however, women and girls need to have their food, water, hygiene, health and education needs covered first. It is their social right, as well as need, I don’t find the 2 terms to be mutually exclusive but rather a matter of choosing an acceptable language to achieve the overall aim.

International Women’s Day 2024

As we mark this International Women’s Day 2024, under the theme ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ it is vital to recognise women in humanitarian crises.

The theme underscores the value of including women in all aspects of life, emphasising an inclusive workforce, economy, and decision-making processes. This idea also applies to humanitarian work. Estimates show that 4.5% of the world’s population needs humanitarian assistance and at least half of this number are women and girls. While advocating for gender rights is essential, prioritising the fulfilment of basic needs is fundamental.

In commemorating International Women’s Day, let us acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by women in humanitarian crises. While the goal is to see women included in various industries and decision-making roles, with reduced caregiving burdens and a genuine belief in their equal rights, the pressing reality calls for addressing their immediate needs first. Only by securing a foundation of basic living conditions can we pave the way for meaningful discussions on gender rights and equality.

The ongoing debate on needs vs rights will persist as the gap in fulfilling needs expands. I look forward to the day when we can celebrate women’s rights and potential on International Women’s Day, rather than still needing to strive for basic and immediate needs. I look forward to a time when more women are doing ‘productive’ jobs because they have the right to choose to do so, not because circumstances force them to.

Islamic Relief supports women and girls around the world to pursue an education, access healthcare and build sustainable incomes. We also work to address harmful cultural practises that contribute to inequality. Please help us to continue this vital work.

This International Women’s Day, Islamic Relief is celebrating women like Oummou, who is leading the charge to inspire change in Mali.  

Domestic violence is commonplace in many parts of western Africa, where society is still largely dominated by men. Determined to confront this is Oummou, who works at a radio station in the small town of Dio-Gare in southern Mali.

As a child, Oummou saw her father and the community around her mistreat her mother. Oummou’s mother had many daughters but only one son, which the community considered shameful. Oummou was also deeply troubled by the other ways in which women were treated in her community, where it was common for men to beat their wives and the community would punish women for perceived disobedience by breaking their hands.

Women suffering abuse were forbidden to tell anyone about their injuries, so they avoided going to the hospital. Witness to this, Oummou decided that if she were ever in a position to advocate for women, she would do so.

An uphill battle

Over the years, Oummou realised that her generation continued to perpetuate the same toxic and abusive behaviours that she grew up with. To push back against the normalisation of harmful practices, she decided to run for election in the local government.

“In the past, women were forbidden to access any government positions, but I fought hard to change this,” says Oummou. “After a long, uphill battle, I was successful and was elected advisor to the mayor [on gender and women’s rights issues].”

Many of her colleagues had never worked with a woman before, so Oummou faced a lot of resistance within the government. Even the mayor disapproved of her presence among his staff.

“I resisted all of the naysayers, despite them giving me a very difficult time, because I had great ambition to see more women rise up to occupy frontline positions,” she says.

Oummou used her position in government and job at the local radio station to reach as many people as possible. On the airwaves she was able to speak to a large audience, helping others in her area realise that they weren’t alone.

Oummou‘s activism came with a heavy price however, as the community she cared for, initially shunned her, considering her to be rebellious. Sharing those views, her husband divorced her.

“I didn’t let this new setback stop me from achieving my dreams. I persevered and eventually gained respect and acceptance of my work within the local government. I became a fixture due to using my radio show as a platform to educate and advocate around issues facing the town, especially creating awareness about issues like gender-based violence and matters pertaining to women that were considered taboo.”

Making a difference

Oummou’s radio work and her work at the town hall complemented each other, and over the years the mayor came to see Oummou’s potential and her determination to make a difference. Despite the difficult start to their relationship, there is now mutual trust and respect between them.

“I endured a lot of conflict when I first started. Not only did the men [in government] keep things from me, I was not invited to meetings, I was spoken to rudely.”

“In time many men realised that I would not be stopped regardless of what they did to me. My mission was clear: I wanted to show men that a woman can do what they do too, and that I have the same entitlements as them. So, when they wanted to put me in my place, I made sure to stand tall.”

Standing up for women’s rights

Oummou says she is finally seeing the fruits of her labour, not only in the women that thank her for standing up for their rights, but also within her own family. She was reunited with her husband after many years, and he is now among her main supporters.

“The different roles we played in the past have come to an end, which has shown me that the advocacy I have been working on has been successful in our home. My husband now sits with our children and talks to them about the issues I cover in my radio show. The issues that used to divide us are now bringing us closer.”

On this International Women’s Day, Islamic Relief is celebrating Oummou and countless women like her, who are not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for future generations of women leaders.

Oummou’s story is a powerful reminder of the strides we can make when we champion inclusion and celebrate the women who are at the forefront of this transformative movement.

Support our vital work to empower women in Mali and around the world: please donate now.

The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, celebrating the diversity and inclusion of women to create more equal societies, and fairer environments where women feel empowered.

To mark International Women’s Day, we are sharing stories of some of the amazing women Islamic Relief supports around the world.

Stitching a future in Ethiopia

“Every stitch I make is a step towards a better future for my children,” says Ifrah, a young mother who had to rebuild her life in eastern Ethiopia after she was violently forced from her home.

Fleeing with her 5 children, Ifrah eventually settled in the town of Jigjiga where she planned to open a small shop selling clothing that she had handstitched.

Ifrah initially struggled to make her dream a reality, but after coming into contact with Islamic Relief, she received funds and training to open her shop. Ifrah says the support she received from Islamic Relief’s Youth and Woman Empowerment Project (YWEP) went even deeper.

“It’s not just about the money. It’s about the trust that Islamic Relief placed in me, the belief that I could rise.”

Despite the challenges of launching a business in a period of economic uncertainty, Ifrah has been able to turn her shop into a resounding success.

In the beginning, Ifrah would struggle to make as much as 100 ETB (approx. RM8) a day, but the business has now grown to a position where she draws in 15,000 ETB (approx. RM1200) a month.

“There were days when inflation hit us hard,” she recalls. “But with every challenge, I learned, I adapted. Islamic Relief’s training wasn’t just about business; it was about resilience.”

Ifrah hopes her shop will inspire others in Jigjiga.

“My dream? It’s to see a street lined with businesses run by women,” she says with a smile.

“Women who started with a small seed, just like I did.”

Harvesting independence in Indonesia

On the island of Lombok in Indonesia, the green mushroom houses of Uus’s farm are a testament to her hard work and the support of Islamic Relief’s Sustainable Livelihood Project.

“There was a time when uncertainty was the only certainty we had,” Uus recalls.

“Islamic Relief changed that for us; they gave us the tools and the confidence to grow, not just mushrooms, but our dreams.”

The Sustainable Livelihood project in Lombok provides women with training, tools and equipment, as well as financial support to launch enterprises such as mushroom cultivation.

Uus’s mushroom farm has become more than a source of income, it is now a beacon of collective achievement for the community.

“We’re not just growing mushrooms; we’re growing lives,” she says.

Her business now harvests up to 40 kilos of fresh mushrooms daily and employs 10 local workers.

“Islamic Relief taught us to cultivate hope, and now hope blooms in every corner of our farm. This farm is our heart,” she says warmly, “and it beats strong for our community.”

The training and financial support provided by Islamic Relief have helped Uus and her husband develop a thriving business, while also planting seeds of self-reliance in her neighbours.

For Uus, the message is clear:

“When one of us rises, we all rise. My success is our success, and I dream of a day when every woman in Lombok has the means to write her own story of triumph.”

Honouring inspiring women

As we mark International Women’s Day, Uus and Ifrah’s stories reflect a shared vision of a better future – a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and lead change in her community.

Islamic Relief celebrates the resilience and ambition of women like Ifrah and Uus, who are not only rebuilding their lives but also paving the way for others to follow.

Their journeys remind us that when women are given the chance to succeed, they create a stronger, more inclusive world.

Support our vital women’s empowerment work, which enables vulnerable women to gain agency over their lives: please donate now.

To mark International Women’s Day, we are sharing the inspiring story of how one woman in rural Bangladesh changed her life for the better, with support from Islamic Relief.

Women in Bangladesh face many challenges and obstacles to empowerment, from harmful social norms to a lack of access to education and employment opportunities. For women with disabilities, life is even more difficult.

Piya, lives in a remote village in the Rajarhat sub-district of Kurigram in northwestern Bangladesh. The 29-year-old has a hearing impairment and, like many girls in rural Bangladesh, was a victim of early marriage, sometimes known as child marriage.

In rural Bangladesh, women and girls have few opportunities to earn an income and are often viewed as financial burdens. Marriage is the most common way to relieve that burden, prompting many families to marry off their daughters before the girls reach adulthood.

Piya’s parents were worried she might also face discrimination because of her hearing impairment and thought marriage could shield her from that. So, at age 14, she began married life. Social norms around the role of a wife made it impossible for Piya to continue her education, forcing her to drop out of school.

Piya’s husband, Chand Mia, works as a day labourer but struggles to make ends meet with his limited income. Ensuring his wife and children received 3 nutritious meals a day was a constant struggle for him. The situation was difficult for Piya too.

“I experienced profound sadness as I could not contribute more to support my husband. I knew I had to take action, but I was unsure where to begin or what steps to take. The inability to provide meals for our children was particularly painful for me,” she says, reflecting on that challenging time.

A turning point

Piya’s life began to change when she became involved with Islamic Relief. Through the Promoting the Model for the Elimination of Extreme Poverty in rural Bangladesh (EEP) project, she received training, seed money and technical support to launch a business, help break the cycle of poverty and boost her socioeconomic wellbeing. Piya is one of almost 3,500 people facing extreme poverty who will receive support through the 36-month-long project.

Determined to change her family’s situation, Piya embraced the opportunity. With a seed fund of BDT 12,000 (approx. RM512), she began raising goats, expanding her modest farm with Islamic Relief’s support.

Empowered by growing confidence, Piya sought out other streams of income by joining a local self-help group. She found a community offering mutual support as well as sharing knowledge and resources, and became a cashier for the group.

Joining the self-help group opened the door for Piya to make use of Islamic microfinance services. She also took out interest-free loans from the group’s fund to expand her endeavours.

Her small home farm transformed into a diverse landscape, home to goats, chickens, and cows. Project initiatives, such as animal health camps, supported Piya in keeping her animals healthy and well.

Leasing a productive piece of land, Piya cultivated chilli and ginger, which led to substantial monthly profits. She also cultivated her own fodder, saving the money she would have spent buying it, and engaged in other cost-effective farming practices with support from Islamic Relief. Her husband supported her efforts to expand the farm, which became a collaborative effort for the couple.

Piya’s investments and hard work significantly improved her family’s financial situation. She transitioned from depending solely on her husband’s income to becoming a self-sufficient contributor. Beyond her farming activities, Piya became an inspiration within her self-help group, motivating others to pursue their ambitions.

On this International Women’s Day, Piya’s story epitomises determination, resilience, and triumph over adversity. Through her efforts and the right opportunities, she not only achieved financial security but also became an inspiration for those around her.

Islamic Relief is committed to empowering vulnerable people in Bangladesh to lift themselves out of poverty through building sustainable incomes. Please help us to continue this vital work. Donate now.

The massacre in Gaza has passed another shameful milestone, with more than 100,000 Palestinians now killed or wounded since 7 October ¹ – as civilians are attacked at a faster rate than during any conflict this century, in full view of the international community.

Ongoing Israeli attacks together with starvation and disease outbreaks mean this deadly toll could quadruple in the coming months unless there is an immediate ceasefire and a massive increase in humanitarian aid. Yet since last month there has been a 50% reduction in aid getting into Gaza.  

Many of those wounded have suffered injuries that will affect them for the rest of their lives, such as loss of legs or arms or severe trauma. Thousands of children have become orphans and over 1 million children now need mental health support.  

The death toll from Israel’s bombardment continues to mount every day, but there are growing fears that it will be dwarfed by deaths from hunger and disease. One new report by leading academics warns of up to 85,750 excess deaths in Gaza in the next 6 months unless a ceasefire is agreed². There are growing fears of famine, with 1 in 10 young children across the territory malnourished.  

The humanitarian crisis is getting worse and Islamic Relief’s team and partners in Gaza continue to deliver food and other vital aid – but every day it is becoming more difficult and dangerous. The number of aid trucks able to enter Gaza through Rafah or Kerem Shalom / Karem Abu Salem has once again reduced to a tiny trickle over the past couple of weeks, and aid convoys have been attacked. Hundreds of health workers, humanitarian workers and UN staff are among those killed and wounded.  

As this tragic milestone is passed, Islamic Relief continues to call on world leaders to demand an immediate ceasefire and an end to Israel’s siege. Every further delay costs more lives.  

Notes 

• ¹ As of 27 February, 29,878 Palestinians are reported killed and 70,215 injured. Figures for those killed and wounded are taken from latest updates from the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the Palestinian Ministry of Health.
• ² A report by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Center for Humanitarian Health

Misi Kemanusiaan Ini Mengubah Persepsi dan Pandangan Kami. Ya Allah, Sedih…

Selebriti dan Ikon Kemanusiaan Islamic Relief Malaysia, Diana Amir dan kumpulan nasyid Saujana menyifatkan perjalanan misi kemanusiaan ke Lombok, Indonesia pada November lalu terlalu sarat dengan emosi.

Menurut Diana, misi yang diberi nama “Caring World” Mission #Indonesia itu telah membawa dia dan pasukan misi meneroka sisi lain Lombok yang mungkin tidak dipaparkan umum.

“Sebelum ini, saya pernah bercuti di Lombok bersama keluarga. Jadi, seperti pelancong lain, saya hanya dapat melihat Lombok sebagai satu destinasi pelancongan yang unik dengan keindahan pulau, gunung dan alam semula jadinya yang cantik.

“Namun, selepas menjalani tujuh hari pengembaraan misi, pandangan saya sudah berbeza. Saya mahu kembali ke Malaysia sebagai suara dan penyampai kepada masyarakat seluruhnya, yang sebenarnya di luar sana ada ramai yang sangat memerlukan bantuan,” kata Diana.

Objektif misi yang disertai Diana, Saujana dan empat kakitangan Islamic Relief Malaysia itu bertujuan untuk melihat dan melawat projek-projek bantuan yang dijalankan Islamic Relief, khususnya melibatkan anak yatim dan projek penjanaan pendapatan di bawah sektor kehidupan mampan.

Walaupun diuji dengan derita yang berat, Masha-Allah mereka sangat kuat…

Bagi Ahmad Zuhaidi Abdul Aziz, salah seorang ahli kumpulan Saujana yang turut serta dalam misi itu berkata, landskap kemiskinan memang boleh dilihat di mana-mana, hatta di Malaysia, namun cabaran yang dilalui anak yatim yang kami temui di Lombok berbeza dan saya rasa ujian mereka sangat berat.

“Antara cabaran paling susah yang dihadapi ibu tunggal atau penjaga kepada anak yatim yang kami temui ialah kesukaran untuk mendapatkan sumber pendapatan.

“Mereka masih di tahap kais pagi makan pagi, kais petang makan petang. Malah, ada juga pekerjaan yang diusahakan mengambil masa dua hingga tiga hari untuk disiapkan dan selepas itu baru boleh dijual, itu pun sekiranya ada yang mahu membeli.

“Disebabkan itu, Islamic Relief menekankan bantuan terhadap anak yatim melibatkan sokongan pendidikan. Hanya dengan pendidikan, mereka dapat mengubah nasib diri dan keluarga, seterusnya keluar dari putaran kemiskinan yang menyelubungi mereka,” kata Zuhaidi.

Suffian Amrin dari kumpulan Saujana turut menambah, pendidikan adalah pelaburan terbaik. Setiap manusia mempunyai hak untuk mendapatkan pendidikan sewajarnya.

“Saya rasa sangat terkesan dan sedih melihat ada anak yatim yang kami temui berdepan trauma kerana terpaksa berhenti sekolah, sedangkan dia sangat suka belajar dan mempunyai prestasi pembelajaran yang baik,” cerita Suffian.

Diana hiba melihat kepayahan hidup ibu tunggal yang seusia dengannya

“Apa yang membuatkan saya rasa sangat terkesan, kebanyakan daripada mereka sebaya umur dengan saya, tapi sedih bila tengok mereka hidup dalam keadaan yang sangat daif.

“Mereka hidup dalam serba kekurangan dan serba tiada. Makan pun tak menentu setiap hari. Tapi, Masha-Allah mereka sentiasa mengucapkan Alhamdulillah. Ucapan Alhamdulillah tak pernah lekang daripada bibir mereka,” jelas Diana.

Tambahnya, ada yang kehilangan suami ketika suami bekerja di perantauan. Bertahun-tahun tidak bertemu, akhirnya hanya sekujur tubuh tidak bernyawa yang tiba di depan pintu rumah.

“Sarimah mempunyai seorang anak perempuan yang diberi nama Siti Humainah. Humainah lahir normal, namun kemiskinan mengakibatkan dia kini cacat penglihatan, tidak boleh bercakap dan tidak boleh menguruskan diri sendiri.

“Sewaktu kecil, Humainah diserang demam panas dan sawan, namun Sarimah tidak dapat membawa anaknya ke hospital kerana tiada wang dan pengangkutan.

“Suara Sarimah berbunyi kecewa dan ada penyesalan dalam nada suaranya. Mungkin dia rasa jika dia ada kemampuan untuk merawat Humainah dahulu, Humainah pasti dapat membesar dengan baik,” kata Diana.

Diana dan Saujana menyeru orang ramai untuk sama-sama menyokong projek MyYateem #CareForOrphan yang dianjurkan Islamic Relief Malaysia bagi membantu anak yatim di lebih 20 buah negara termasuk Indonesia, Syria, Yaman dan Palestin.

Terdapat dua pakej yang ditawarkan menerusi projek MyYateem iaitu Kasih MyYateem dan Tajaan MyYateem.

Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila layari laman web www.islamic-relief.org.my untuk menderma dan berkongsi rezeki bersama anak-anak yatim.

Diana dan Saujana berharap semoga inisiatif menerusi hebahan projek ini dapat meringankan penderitaan anak yatim, selari dengan galakan dalam Islam dan yang dianjurkan junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad SAW sepertimana yang diriwayatkan oleh Abu Hurairah RA, bahawa Nabi SAW bersabda:

كَافِلُ الْيَتِيمِ لَهُ أَوْ لِغَيْرِهِ أَنَا وَهُوَ كَهَاتَيْنِ فِي الْجَنَّةِ

Maksud: “Orang yang menanggung anak yatim miliknya atau milik orang lain, aku dan dia seperti dua ini (Nabi SAW mengisyaratkan dengan dua jari baginda SAW) di syurga”. [Riwayat Muslim, (2983)]

Two weeks since the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, the situation for civilians in Gaza has become even worse, Islamic Relief says.  

Israel is now intensifying its bombing in Rafah – the most crowded part of Gaza, where more than half the population is now sheltering in appalling conditions – and a ground assault there will have catastrophic consequences for civilians.  

On 26 January the ICJ ruled that Israel must end the killing of Palestinians in Gaza and enable an increase in humanitarian aid – yet since then, thousands more people have been killed and injured, and famine is becoming more likely every day as the Israeli siege continues to cut families off from food, healthcare and water.  

In the past few weeks there has been a sharp increase in malnutrition among children under five years old, with malnutrition rates now rising to critical levels.  

An Islamic Relief staff member in Gaza, whose name is withheld given the extreme insecurity, says: “Israel is starving us. We either get killed by bullets or starvation. My children and I haven’t eaten fruit or vegetables for months, and people get killed when they try to meet aid trucks arriving from the UN.  

“I just want to feed my family. We are trying to make bread with dried corn that we previously used as animal feed, as flour is extremely scarce and even if you can find it, it costs a tremendous amount of money. Often all we have for a meal is just some plain rice. My kids are never full, they always want another thing to eat. And we are relatively lucky compared to most people who don’t have anything at all.” 

Many families are going whole days or even several days without eating, and there are reports of children so hungry they are eating leaves or whatever they can find.   

Islamic Relief continues to call on world leaders and international governments to demand an immediate ceasefire and implementation of the ICJ ruling.  

Almost 100,000 Palestinians in Gaza have now been killed or injured after four months of the bombardment, during which violations of international law have become a daily occurrence. The past few days have seen more fierce attacks across Gaza, including in and around hospitals and schools where displaced families have sought refuge, against civilians as they try to get water, and against ambulances and aid convoys providing vital food and medical care.  

Islamic Relief staff and partners on the ground are providing thousands of families with daily hot meals and other vital aid. Yet despite the ICJ ruling, nowhere near enough aid is reaching people in need, due to a combination of the extreme insecurity and Israeli restrictions. Hundreds of thousands of people in northern Gaza are almost completely inaccessible to humanitarian agencies, with convoys there repeatedly denied permission to enter the area. This week only around 200 aid trucks a day have been able to enter Gaza – compared to the 500 trucks that used to enter daily even before the escalation.   

As hospitals continue to face attacks, not a single hospital in Gaza is now classed as fully functioning. The few that are still partly operational are desperately short of fuel, surgical supplies and essentials such as oxygen, with doctors reporting that civilians have died as a direct result.  

One year ago, Türkiye and Syria faced a devastating earthquake, swiftly followed by hundreds of aftershocks and another deadly quake. Reflecting on the resilience and hardships of survivors, Shahin Ashraf, Islamic Relief’s head of global advocacy, calls for support with sustained aid and recovery.

The earthquake of 6 February 2023 exacerbated challenges faced by communities in dire need. The 11 provinces in Türkiye’s southern region, already battling high poverty rates, became epicentres of devastation. Meanwhile, in Syria’s crisis-ridden northwestern region, where 90% of the population relied on humanitarian aid, the earthquake added another layer of hardship.

The earthquake news from Türkiye and Syria sent a shiver down my spine, triggering memories of my own unsettling experience. In the eerie stillness just before morning prayer at 4:31am on 17 January 1994, a deep rumbling noise, resembling the approach of a distant train, pierced the silence, accompanied by violent shaking. The chilling sounds of my neighbours’ screams and distant voices urgently declaring, “Earthquake!”

In 2023, hearing about the earthquake instantly transported me back to that morning in Los Angeles, USA. While I can’t fully comprehend the experiences of those affected in Türkiye and Syria, I resonate with the lingering feelings that accompany such profound events. The haunting memories, displacement, and rebuilding process echo my own journey.

In this shared resonance of resilience and recovery, a universal understanding emerges, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Reflecting on seismic events that shape our lives globally. The threads of fear, uncertainty, and the resilience needed to navigate the aftermath of disasters bind us as a global community. The empathy stirred by these news reports reminds me of our interconnectedness and the fragility of the ground we stand upon.

I couldn’t help but feel a kinship with those facing the daunting task of rebuilding. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, marked by physical reconstruction and emotional healing. However, my own experience has taught me that the human spirit is remarkably resilient.

The human toll

The preexisting vulnerabilities of these regions intensified the impact of the earthquake, creating a profound humanitarian crisis.

For example, even before the earthquakes, increasing pressures on water sources in Türkiye and Syria due to climate change impacts, population growth, and socio-political considerations were evident. With the damage to infrastructure caused by the earthquakes, water scarcity is now an even more pressing problem.

The earthquakes and aftershocks claimed over 50,000 lives and left more than 100,000 injured. The numbers speak of tragedy. According to a stark damage assessment study by Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, over 50,000 homes were destroyed, thrusting a significant portion of the population into displacement and homelessness.

Picture this: more than 3 million people found themselves displaced in Türkiye alone, with 2.6 million individuals seeking refuge in temporary settlements that lacked the essentials: clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. These were not just statistics; they were the stories of shattered lives, families torn from their homes, grappling with the harsh reality of inadequate living conditions.

Venture into northwestern Syria, and the toll became even more heartrending. In a region where more than 2.74 million were already displaced, nearly 109,000 individuals were further uprooted by the earthquake’s devastating force.

The infrastructure damage in Syria was compounded by the scars of previous crises. Buildings broken and battered by the earthquake were already weakened, cracked by the intensity of past shelling. It was a tragic overlap of 2 calamities, leaving traumatised communities grappling not just with the consequences of nature’s fury but also the lingering wounds of human violence.

I was incredibly moved by the story of Ahmad, a Syrian refugee, who lived in a peaceful village before fleeing to Türkiye in search of safety:

“With each passing day, our village transformed from a haven of peace into a tapestry of chaos and despair. Work ceased, and food became scarce, forcing us into a nomadic life, moving from one village to another in search of safety,” Ahmad said, describing his ordeal to Islamic Relief.

As the situation worsened, Ahmad said his family made “the heart-wrenching decision to leave everything behind” as they set off on a dangerous journey to neighbouring Türkiye. He described the language barrier as the greatest trial, “an invisible wall standing between them and their new home.” But still, they felt safer there than at home in Syria – until 6 February 2023.

“The earthquake struck without warning, shaking the very foundations of our home. We rushed outside, watching in horror as the earth convulsed. Our house, our sanctuary, crumbled before our eyes, but thankfully, our lives were spared.”

Ongoing struggles

Though the immediate danger has passed, both countries still grapple with earthquake aftershocks. With only 54% of the United Nations’ Türkiye appeal funded and 36% of the Humanitarian Response Plan funded for Syria, donor fatigue poses a significant challenge.

The region’s geopolitical landscape, coupled with aid withdrawals, threatens further humanitarian crises.

Call to action

In the context of Syria, the call for dialogue is a plea for collaborative problem-solving amidst the complex challenges faced by the country. Islamic Relief continues to emphasise ongoing engagement between sanctioning authorities and aid agencies to ensure relief efforts are not hindered.

Given the interconnected challenges experienced by the affected communities in Syria, this call to action underscores the necessity of a collective effort that goes beyond immediate relief.  As we advocate for sustainable solutions in post-earthquake recovery and conflict resolution, addressing challenges posed by sanctions and infrastructure issues becomes imperative. Islamic Relief’s call for a shift from punitive measures to collaborative dialogue underscores the need for a nuanced approach.

Donate and support

In times of crisis, communities come together, rising above the rubble to support one another. It is my hope that the affected regions find strength in unity, drawing from the collective well of human compassion. The seismic waves may have shaken the foundations, but the indomitable spirit of those affected will undoubtedly guide them through the process of rebuilding, forging a narrative of recovery, strength, and solidarity.

As the days turned into months, and the months into a year, the impact of the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes refuses to diminish. The scars left on the landscape are not just physical but etched into the collective memory of communities that continue to grapple with the aftermath. In the face of such persistent adversity, it’s a harsh reality that the world’s attention has largely moved on, diverted by the pressing demands of other crises. However, even as the headlines fade, Islamic Relief remains resolute, addressing the ongoing needs of communities still reeling from the dual blows of nature’s wrath and the enduring repercussions of crisis.

This steadfast commitment goes beyond the immediate aftermath, beyond humanitarian response. It’s a pledge to remain engaged, to continue offering assistance to families still struggling for survival. For those who are left, Islamic Relief remains a crucial link to sustained aid and recovery.

So, as we reflect on the year that has passed since the Türkiye-Syria earthquake, let’s not just remember the initial outpouring of support but also acknowledge the ongoing need. The call to give to Islamic Relief is not a fleeting one; it’s an enduring plea to ensure that assistance and hope persist in the lives of those who still bear the heavy burden of rebuilding not just homes but entire lives. In the face of such ongoing challenges, your continued support can make a lasting difference.

Islamic Relief has been responding to earthquakes and other crises in the region since the 90s. On the anniversary of the latest deadly quakes, we are re-affirming our commitment to survivors like Ahmad, Emina and Ali. People battered by this disaster, but not broken. We will remain by their sides as they begin the huge task of rebuilding their shattered lives and communities.

“Now, we face many challenges, but your assistance greatly alleviates our burden,” points out Emina, while Ahmad reflects that his is “a story of resilience and hope.”

In the immediate aftermath of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake in February 2023, Islamic Relief’s Majdi Samaan travelled to the epicentre to talk to survivors and document their suffering. One year later, he reflects on his recent return to Gaziantep and the ongoing needs in Türkiye and Syria.

On the first anniversary of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake, the journey of the past year unfolds in my mind like a poignant tapestry of pain and resilience. It wasn’t just a tremor; it was a seismic event that transformed lives into chapters of suffering and perseverance.

The immediate aftermath

The impact of the earthquake rippled far beyond the borders of Kahramanmaraş, displacing millions and leaving communities in a state of devastation. Communities lost more than lives and property; they became a repository of tarnished memories etched into the collective consciousness.

In the immediate aftermath, I bore witness to the tragedy and destruction. Images of collapsed schools and ruined houses are not just distant stories; they are etched in my memory.

My initial days in Kahramanmaraş were spent wandering through streets filled with sorrow. When I went to Hatay, the scenes were of loss, of families who had left everything behind when they fled their homes.

Mourners emerged from homes, and the smell of death permeated the air. The cemeteries expanded daily to accommodate dozens of bodies, and the grief and pain were not confined to moments of death alone. Aftershocks continued, instilling fear, and even after a year, I still have nightmares about this.

Resilience in the face of adversity

Aid, including from Islamic Relief, arrived, and basic services gradually began to return. Life started to regain some vibrancy, but the realisation set in that the recovery process would be slow and require immense patience. Even after a year, significant impacts persist, with families still separated and affected areas yet to return to normalcy.

As time unfolds, resilience emerges as a silent force. Returning to the area as part of my work with Islamic Relief, I witness new structures rising from the rubble like symbols of hope. Walking down a street once marked by destruction, I see a story of transformation and reconstruction.

Amid the remnants of sorrow, I see people beginning to return home, and smiles, though hesitant, creep onto their faces, a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. Solidarity and determination arise in the face of the toughest trials. Life continues, and hope is reignited, even in the aftermath of such a cataclysmic event.

An indelible impact

Still, the disaster has left indelible psychological and economic imprints on the affected communities. On this poignant anniversary, I am reminded that the road to recovery remains long.

It is painful to see the faces of people who have bravely accepted their losses. So many families faced immense loss, leaving behind an irreplaceable void that words cannot adequately express.

In the face of these extremely challenging moments, people endeavour to rebuild their lives. The memory of lost loved ones remains eternal in the hearts of survivors, shaping hope despite losing a substantial part of their lives.

Water, electricity, and infrastructure shortages in Syria add new layers of difficulty to people’s lives, reflecting the extent of despair and the urgent need for shelter and protection. Displaced people and refugees in particular are in dire need of safe and dignified homes.

Re-affirming our commitment to affected communities

Islamic Relief continues to offer our unwavering support to the affected families. Their stories inspire us to persist, urging supporters to stand by their side in this ongoing journey of recovery. This situation reminds us of the importance of human rights and dignity for all. Preserving human life, safety, and dignity are the ultimate goals.

As I conclude this personal reflection on the first anniversary of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake, I carry with me the stories of pain, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of hope. The journey from tragedy to triumph continues, and our collective commitment remains vital in rebuilding lives and communities.

On 5 February 2023, Ahmad and Emina settled down to sleep, while in another country, Ali sets out for work, never imagining that before dawn a disaster would change their lives forever.

Father-of-5 Ahmad was used to the quiet rhythm of life in his village in the Syrian countryside, until violence reached his community.

“Our village transformed from a haven of peace into a tapestry of chaos and despair,” says Ahmad. “Work ceased, and food became scarce, forcing us into a nomadic life, moving from one village to another in search of safety.”

Eventually Ahmad realised that his family would find no safe place in Syria.

“We made the heart-wrenching decision to leave everything behind. With nothing but the clothes on our backs, we embarked on a perilous journey to Türkiye,” says Ahmad, who managed to find an apartment to rent in Yağdöver village, to the south of Gaziantep.

At the epicentre of disaster

Gradually, the family started to feel safer – until the early hours of 6 February, when they found themselves at the epicentre of a major disaster.

“The earthquake struck without warning, shaking the very foundations of our home,” remembers Ahmad, describing the shock of the powerful quake, which measured 7.8 on the Richter scale.

“We rushed outside, watching in horror as the earth convulsed. Our house, our sanctuary, crumbled before our eyes, but thankfully, our lives were spared.”

In Kahramanmaraş, north of Gaziantep, Emina was also wrenched from sleep.

“My husband wasn’t home when the earthquake struck. It was just me and the children,” says the 47-year-old Turkish mother.

“I had to calm my children and save them. I was more focused on ensuring their safety than my own. We somehow managed to escape outside barefoot, amidst the rain and snow. It was a scene of utter despair.”

Across the border in Syria, Ali’s world was falling apart.

“I was working in the bakery that night,” remembers Ali, whose family were sleeping at home.

“Everything around me started shaking violently. I rushed out of the building. The scene was horrifying – buildings were shaking violently and collapsing, one after another. But the real shock was waiting for me at home. Everything was destroyed. I started searching the rubble, but silence reigned. My eyes searched for any sign of life. For 3 full days, I dug and searched, but in vain.”

At 30 years old, Ali had lost his wife and 5 children.

“I lost my family… I lost everything. In those difficult moments, memories of my children and images of their innocent faces haunted my mind. I remember their laughter and hugs. I screamed at the top of my lungs for my children who were taken from me.”

Ahmad, Emina, and Ali faced more devastation to come. Hundreds of aftershocks, including a tremor almost as strong as the first, inflicted more destruction on already shattered communities in Türkiye and Syria.

Around 57,000 people died, and many more were injured. The damage was widespread: the disaster affected 11 Turkish provinces, including some of the country’s poorest places and parts of Syria where most people already relied on humanitarian aid.

From the first day of the disaster Islamic Relief was a lifeline.

We reached tens of thousands of survivors with food, water, blankets and hygiene items as well as cash and vouchers. Emina was among those we helped: the family received food, blankets, and clean water as well as vouchers with which they bought essentials.

Islamic Relief is helping rebuild lives in Syria and Türkiye

In the months that followed, families in Syria swapped flimsy tents for sturdy shelters built by Islamic Relief. We began work to repair water infrastructure, and to strengthen struggling healthcare facilities. Islamic Relief expanded efforts to restore farming and herding livelihoods. Teachers received training and pay through a 2-year project that will rebuild schools.

In Türkiye, we kick-started similar interventions to reconstruct schools and expanded our work supporting families to build reliable livelihoods. Ahmad has been involved with one of our livelihoods projects for years.

“Back in Syria, I was a shepherd. [Losing my livelihood] left a void that was hard to fill,” says Ahmad, who was holding onto hope when he found Islamic Relief. “They offered me 13 sheep and a ram, along with feed. This gesture was more than just a gift; it was a lifeline, an opportunity to rebuild.

“The sheep became a source of sustenance and income. They provided milk, cheese, and meat, helping us survive in our new reality. It was a challenging endeavour, especially during the harsh winters, but it brought a sense of purpose back into my life.”

In addition Islamic Relief Türkiye expanded its orphan sponsorship programme, helping care for more than 4,000 vulnerable children in the country and in Syria.

Millions of people face deepening poverty and hardship

One year after the disaster, 17 million people still face a long road to recovery. The scale of the challenge is enormous: across both countries, the cost of recovery and reconstruction could be as high as $80 billion. Already, poverty is deepening and development gains are slipping away.

Many people are still living in tents and makeshift shelters with little access to vital services. Ahmad and his family are among them: right after the quake destroyed their apartment, the Turkish government gave them a tent, and in time, a caravan beside the ruined building. They dream of the day their apartment is rebuilt, and they can return.

“We longed for the warmth and security of our old home, but all we had were memories.”

Emina too, is yet to return home: her family are still in temporary accommodation while waiting for their home to be rebuilt. A year later, the mother-of-2 remains traumatised by her experiences in the disaster.

“I feel intense fear for my children and am still experiencing the effects of shock,” she says.

“In the months following the earthquake, we endured many hardships. We couldn’t adapt to the new reality, but we are grateful to God for sparing us from worse. Perhaps this was a warning, but I’m not sure if we understand it.”

Grieving and traumatised, Ali still lives with his parents in a makeshift tent amid the ruins of his family home in Azmarin, near Idleb, Syria.

“My heart aches for losing [my family]. I pray to God to grant me patience and strength. The tent has become my shelter. I am afraid to live in concrete houses for fear of them collapsing over my head as it happened to my family. The ground shakes from time to time, and I am seized by panic and fear. My heart races, and I remember my children and what happened to them.

“A year has passed since my family’s departure. My life has completely changed, I am living in a state of shock, misery, and tragedy. We mainly rely on humanitarian aid to meet our basic needs.”

Islamic Relief has been responding to earthquakes and other crises in the region since the 90s. On the anniversary of the latest deadly quakes, we are re-affirming our commitment to survivors like Ahmad, Emina and Ali. People battered by this disaster, but not broken. We will remain by their sides as they begin the huge task of rebuilding their shattered lives and communities.

“Now, we face many challenges, but your assistance greatly alleviates our burden,” points out Emina, while Ahmad reflects that his is “a story of resilience and hope.”