Shifting power in emergency response is vital, says focal point Lisa Horiwapu in Honiara, Solomon Islands. She reported that food, shelter and personal items were among the immediate needs for communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Harold, which hit several Pacific countries in March 2020. “As the COVID-19 crisis continued, Harold came along and brought another disaster”, Lisa says:

“Food security is already a worry for mothers in Honiara because of a possible lock-down if the country has a confirmed COVID-19 case. Harold caused heavy rains, and damage to food gardens.”

Shifting the Power Coalition is a feminist network of humanitarian organizations in the Pacific region, committed to promoting women’s leadership and inclusion of disabled people in humanitarian action. Since 2016, the Coalition has brought together 13 organizations across six countries to ensure that women take their rightful place at the head of emergency responses, and that the needs of women, girls and vulnerable members of the communities are at the heart of these responses. The work of the Coalition is supported by a network of national focal points. Find out more about the Shifting the Power Coalition via Official Website or follow Facebook Page