KSrelief Supervisor General Discusses Women's Health Challenges Amid Conflict At UNGA Side Event

Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Advisor to the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KSrelief, participated in a panel at the 79th UN General Assembly session in New York. The discussion focused on the intersection of conflict, displacement, refugees, and women's health. Organised by KSrelief, it underscored the urgent need to address women's and girls' health needs during emergencies.

Al Rabeeah highlighted that conflicts and disasters disrupt access to essential services, increasing maternal and infant mortality risks. He stressed providing specialised services in such situations is vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of "good health and well-being." He cited UN estimates indicating one woman dies every two minutes during pregnancy or childbirth.

In 2020, maternal deaths were estimated at 287,000 globally, with 95% occurring in impoverished regions and conflict-affected countries. Al Rabeeah noted KSrelief's extensive efforts to address reproductive health needs worldwide. Through partnerships with governments, UN agencies, international organisations, and local communities, KSrelief has implemented projects worth over $100 million.

The centre focuses on providing essential reproductive health services to pregnant women, girls, and children in vulnerable areas. It has expanded its reach through mobile teams to remote regions affected by conflicts, poverty, natural disasters, epidemics, and other challenging circumstances.

Al Rabeeah described the dire situation for women in the Gaza Strip due to ongoing conflict and blockade. Restricted movement and limited healthcare access have severely impacted women's ability to receive essential medical services related to reproductive health.

The event was held in collaboration with several international organisations including the World Health Organization, United Nations Population Fund, UN Refugee Agency, International Organization for Migration, and International Medical Corps.

KSrelief's initiatives aim to improve access to healthcare for women in crisis zones. By addressing these critical needs through strategic partnerships and targeted projects, they strive to enhance maternal health outcomes globally.

With inputs from SPA