The floods that struck Bosnia and Herzegovina in October 2024 had a significant impact on the physical and emotional well-being of thousands, with women being particularly vulnerable due to heightened risks during crises. SDG 3 highlights the importance of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all, while SDG 5 underscores achieving gender equality and empowering women. During these periods of heightened vulnerability, access to essential sexual and reproductive health services, including maternal health, was severely compromised, while the risk of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) notably increased. The emergency response underscored the importance of integrating health services into humanitarian efforts.
“The floods brought emotional stress and increased the burden on women – from caring for their families to rebuilding their homes. In crisis settings, violence becomes an even bigger problem,” said Ms. Elvedina Alić, president of the Women's Association “Nera” from Konjic.
Even before the floods, Bosnia and Herzegovina struggled to provide comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, particularly in rural and remote areas. The crisis further aggravated this situation, as many women became deprived of access to basic healthcare, including prenatal care and safe delivery options. Moreover, the emotional toll on women experiencing trauma and heightened vulnerability to violence significantly impacted their mental and physical health, highlighting an urgent need for holistic and integrated healthcare support.
In response to the floods, UNFPA, in collaboration with local partners, such as the Red Cross of Bosnia and Herzegovina, distributed dignity kits containing essential hygiene products, ensuring that women could meet their basic needs while preserving their health and dignity.
“The distribution of the dignity kits was a concrete help at a difficult time. It was something that truly showed solidarity and ensured the minimum conditions for a dignified life. However, this is only the first step,” explained Ms. Emina Husagić, Program Manager at United Nations Population Fund in Bosnia and Herzegovina (UNFPA BiH).
The Women and Girls Center in Konjic played a crucial role in ensuring continued access to sexual and reproductive health services, including counselling and education. As part of the center's ongoing work, a female gynaecologist conducts bi-monthly visits to provide consultations on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and maternal health. These visits are vital for ensuring that women receive essential care, particularly during the recovery phase, when their needs are often marginalized or overlooked.
“The engagement of a female gynaecologist twice a month is especially important when we include many women in our workshops and lectures. We are especially happy to respond to the needs of young girls who seek guidance and open conversations about sexual and reproductive health, empowering them to grow into healthy, confident women capable of embracing their well-being throughout their lives. Equally significant is the role of the female psychologist, whose support has been crucial during this critical period, addressing the emotional and mental health of women and girls.” Ms. Alić emphasizes.
Furthermore, UNFPA’s efforts have also prioritized comprehensive psychosocial support, with a particular focus on women’s mental health, which is closely linked to overall well-being. The “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign has played a key role in raising awareness about the interconnections between gender-based violence, health and well-being, while advocating for stronger protections and enhanced services for affected women.
Since the intervention, significant improvements have been observed in women’s access to SRH services. However, notable health disparities persist. Women from marginalized groups, including women with disabilities, still encounter significant barriers to access SRH care and psychosocial support. While mental health services are critically important, they remain insufficiently funded and under-resourced. Sustained efforts are essential to ensure equitable access to these services, especially for women living in rural areas or belonging to other disadvantaged groups.
The integration of mental health support into SRH services has proven effective in helping women cope with trauma, with encouraging reports indicating that women feel increasingly empowered to seek help, discuss their health openly, and access necessary services. However, maintaining a strong focus on outreach and ensuring inclusivity remains essential to bridge existing gaps in access to health services, particularly for the most vulnerable.
“Thanks to the UNFPA, our dream of opening the center has become a reality. This is a safe place where women can discuss their concerns and find solutions”, Ms. Alić concludes.
UNFPA’s efforts in the aftermath of the floods highlight the critical intersection between gender equality and health, demonstrating how integrated responses are essential for safeguarding the health and well-being of women in times of crisis. The work carried out in Bosnia and Herzegovina emphasizes the vital importance of maintaining and improving access to essential healthcare services, including SRH care, as a core component of crisis recovery, ensuring that no one is left behind.
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Palais des Nations, Geneva
