Structural Inequalities and Ebola: Unpacking the Intersectional Risks of Violence Against Women and Girls in Eastern Congo
Original framing: “Opinion: The Ebola outbreak will lead to devastating violence against women and girls” — STAT News
Historical parallels between Ebola outbreaks and increased violence against women and girls are evident in the 2014-2016 outbreak in West Africa, where women and girls were disproportionately affected by the crisis. This pattern is likely to be repeated in eastern Congo, where women and girls are already vulnerable to violence and exploitation.
The Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo highlights the intersectional nature of this issue, including the complex relationships between poverty, lack of access to education and economic opportunities, and patriarchal social norms.
Addressing these inequalities requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the needs and perspectives of marginalized communities, including women and girls. This requires engaging with local communities, including indigenous and traditional leaders, to develop culturally sensitive and effective interventions. The perspectives of marginalized communities, including women and girls, are essential for developing effective, community-led responses to the Ebola outbreak. However, these perspectives are frequently marginalized and excluded from mainstream discussions of the outbreak.