Imagine waking up one morning to find your home in chaos – maybe a war has started, or a flood has swept through your town, or a disease is spreading fast. This is what happens during a humanitarian crisis – a time when people’s health, safety, and well-being are at serious risk, and everyone is struggling just to survive. These crises can be caused by natural disasters like earthquakes or floods, or by human actions like wars and conflicts.

Did you know that during these times, some dangers become even worse? One of these is Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

When the World Turns Upside Down

Ada was a bright girl who was in high school. She loved playing football with her friends after school and helping her mum in the kitchen. Life wasn’t perfect, but she felt safe in her community. 

Suddenly, one evening, everything changed. News spread that fighting had broken out in a nearby community and the attackers were headed to her town. There was immediate panic because these attackers were known to completely destroy communities. They killed without mercy and burnt up houses. People started packing bags and running for safety. Ada’s family joined a crowd heading to a camp set up by aid workers.

Life in the Camp: New Dangers

At first, Ada thought the camp would be a safe place. But soon, she noticed things were different: 

• There were too many people and not enough space. 
• Food and water were hard to get. 
• The usual rules and protections were gone. 

In this chaos, Ada heard whispers from other girls about men who tried to hurt them or demanded things in exchange for food or safety. Some girls were afraid to go to the toilets at night. Ada realized that, without the normal protection of their community, girls like her were at greater risk of SGBV. 

Why Does SGBV Get Worse in Crises? 

During humanitarian crises, the systems that usually keep people safe, like schools, police, and families, often break down. Here’s why SGBV then becomes a bigger problem.

• Breakdown of Law and Order: With police and community leaders overwhelmed or missing, people who want to harm others feel they can get away with it. 
• Crowded Living Conditions: Camps and shelters are crowded, making privacy impossible and increasing the risk of abuse. 
• Scarcity of Resources: When basic needs like food and water are limited, some people take advantage of this to exploit others, especially women and girls. 
• Displacement and Fear: Being forced to leave home makes people vulnerable, especially girls, who may be separated from their families or support networks. 

The Impact: More Than Just Physical

SGBV doesn’t just hurt the body. It leaves deep scars on the mind and heart. Survivors tend to feel afraid, ashamed, or alone. They might not know where to get help, especially if health services are disrupted. That’s why it’s so important for communities and aid workers to act fast to protect everyone, especially the most vulnerable.

Standing Up for Each Other

One day, Ada and her friends decided they wouldn’t stay silent. They joined a group led by older girls to talk about staying safe, watching out for each other, and reporting any dangers to trusted adults. Aid workers started holding meetings to teach everyone about SGBV and how to get help. 

Ada learned that she wasn’t powerless. By speaking up, supporting friends, and knowing her rights, she could help make her community safer even in a crisis. 

What Did They Do That We Can Learn From?

• Speak Out: They talked about SGBV, so more people knew it is wrong and that it is okay to ask for help. 
• Look Out for Each Other: They walked in groups, especially at night, and supported friends who were scared or hurt. 
• Learn Where to Get Help: They identified trusted adults and health workers in the community and reported any sign of abuse.
• Demand Action: They organized regular forums to engage leaders and aid workers on how to make camps and shelters safer for everyone. 

Conclusion: Hope in the Hardest Times

Humanitarian crises are tough, but they also show how strong and brave people can be. By understanding the risks of SGBV and working together, young people like Ada can help build safer, kinder communities-even when the world feels upside down. 

Remember, everyone deserves to feel safe, no matter where they are or what is happening around them and together, we can make a difference.