A recent UN Women study reveals that the situation in the Gaza Strip is becoming increasingly critical, with 23% of Palestinian households now headed by women, double the rate observed before the intensified conflicts in October 2023. This significant change occurs as women take control of family income and decision-making, although many of these households are still formally registered under male leadership.
The conditions faced by these women are described as catastrophic. Women-led families are in worse situations compared to male-headed households, with 74% living in destroyed locations and 66% in inadequate conditions. Nearly 50% of these female heads of household face lack of shelter and financial resources, and 18.3% have not received humanitarian aid, a percentage higher than the 8.7% recorded in male-headed households. Women reported having to relocate, on average, eight times since the beginning of the conflict.
Gender-based violence is another pressing issue, with 19% of women expressing concerns about their safety, compared to only 8% of those living under male leadership. They face additional obstacles, such as the loss of civil documents and restricted mobility, increasing the risks of harassment in public areas.
Violence continues to be a reality in Gaza even after ceasefire agreements. Since the implementation of the agreement, 246 women and girls have lost their lives, an average of six per week. UN Women emphasizes the urgent need for full implementation of the ceasefire, facilitation of access to humanitarian aid, and the creation of support programs focused on women's priorities, including legal assistance and protection against violence.
