We look back on 2023, acknowledging the tragedies that have marked the year -  natural, climate and human-made crises which compound UNFPA’s mission. However, our resolve, and that of our partners and the women and girls we serve, is immovable. 

We also celebrate what’s possible when women and girls can fulfil their rights. From unleashing first fashion collections and claiming economic and bodily autonomy; finding innovative ways to help girls complete their education; delivering babies safely on land and sea; and reaching women in crisis with compassion.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing one of the world’s most complex and protracted crises. An estimated 6.2 million people are displaced. Survivors of sexual violence say they largely feel forgotten after decades of what seems like a never-ending war. UNFPA is present in IDP camps and surrounding areas to support women and girls.

Libya bore the catastrophic brunt of Storm Daniel on 11 September 2023 as floodwater swelled and dams burst, submerging parts of Derna and surrounding areas. 

Thousands died and in some cases entire families were wiped out by the torrent. UNFPA-supported mobile medical teams, maternity wards, psychosocial teams and safe spaces worked to mitigate the impact on survivors. 

The Israeli Government declared a state of war on the occupied territory on 8 October 2023 following Hamas’ deadly attack. The relentless attacks in Gaza have created a situation described as “hell on earth” by UN spokespeople and others. As the war continues, grieving families and children remain at risk, not only from air strikes, but also from hunger and disease from poor sanitation.

As the year ends with war and worry affecting many people’s lives, UNFPA urges donors to fully fund humanitarian appeals that put women and girls’ needs front and centre.

Effectively supporting women and girls is critical to a successful humanitarian response, in ensuring all members of society are reached and that rights are respected in a crisis. Additionally, a crisis must not be a reason to divert regular funding for sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Every woman and girl, everywhere, must be free from violence and have autonomy over her body and the decisions that affect her. Investing in women and girls is investing in a more positive future.