The 2023 earthquake in Turkey was not just a natural disaster—it was a human crisis that exposed deep social inequalities, especially for women. In the chaos of collapsed buildings, displacement, and loss, women faced unique struggles that went beyond survival.

The Immediate Aftermath

For women, the earthquake brought an urgent fight for safety, dignity, and basic needs. With homes turned to rubble, many found themselves in overcrowded tents or makeshift shelters, often lacking privacy. The struggle for necessities like menstrual hygiene products, safe bathrooms, and secure spaces was immediate and overwhelming. Relief efforts prioritized food and medical aid, but women’s specific needs were often overlooked.

Increased Vulnerability

In times of crisis, gender-based violence tends to rise. Reports of harassment in shelters and the fear of exploitation made many women and girls feel unsafe, even after surviving the quake. Mothers had to find ways to care for their children with little access to food or clean water, while pregnant women faced life-threatening risks without proper medical care.

Women as First Responders

Despite these hardships, women emerged as pillars of strength. Many took on the role of caregivers, looking after injured family members and children while also organizing aid efforts. Local women’s organizations mobilized quickly, providing hygiene kits, psychological support, and protection for those at risk of violence. Their work was crucial in filling the gaps left by official relief efforts.

A Fight Beyond Survival

The earthquake did more than shake the ground—it exposed the fragility of women’s rights in times of crisis. It showed the urgent need for gender-sensitive disaster response plans, ones that ensure women’s safety, dignity, and leadership in recovery efforts.

For the women of Turkey, the earthquake was not just a moment of destruction, but also a reminder of their resilience. Through loss and hardship, they stood strong, proving once again that even in disaster, they are not just survivors—they are fighters.