Please refer to the attached files.
This advocacy brief was developed by the IASC Gender Reference Group (GRG) to promote a gender-integrated Ebola response. It synthesizes evidence on the disproportionate impact of the outbreak on women and girls, highlighting the gender-specific risks, including heightened gender-based violence, disruptions to essential life-saving services (including sexual and reproductive health), livelihood losses and barriers to education. It also emphasizes the critical role of local women’s organizations in outbreak prevention, community engagement and service delivery.
The brief translates these findings into practical recommendations for responders, donors and coordination mechanisms. These are intended to strengthen the Ebola response by identifying and addressing the specific needs of women and girls, as well as promoting and resourcing their crucial leadership.
The brief was informed by a virtual ad hoc GRG consultation held on 25 June 2026 involving local women’s organizations, the DRC Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group and the national GBV Working Group.