Internally displaced women: progress, challenges and the way ahead 2013, para. 47

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Paragraph text: In some situations, such as the Philippines, employment rates are in fact higher amongst IDW men, in part due to the fact that women benefit from greater freedom of movement because they are not seen as a threat by warring parties. IDW taking on new employment opportunities can result in increased tensions, particularly within families and between generations, as notions of pride, status and dignity are perceived to be challenged. These women may face increased pressure and strain, particularly if men do not shift roles to take on more domestic work. However, new livelihood opportunities can strengthen the confidence, leadership skills and influence of IDW. To maximize these benefits, the skills and resources of IDW should be fully recognized and more systematically supported. This entails rectifying the "pervasive biases", which, as the Secretary-General has highlighted, result in resources for initiatives such as post-conflict livelihoods programmes being directed "overwhelmingly towards men". Livelihood programmes for IDW should further be designed to be safe and sustainable, and protect women against unintended protection consequences, including elevated risks of SGBV.

Body: Special Procedures: Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons

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Reference: SR Internally Displaced Persons, Report to the HRC (2013), A/HRC/23/44, para. 47.