Regional Prepositioning Initiative

Australia is a leading supporter of international efforts to provide crisis-affected communities with lifesaving sexual and reproductive health services. These health services are often underfunded during crises, leaving women and girls vulnerable to preventable illness, trauma and death. UNFPA is a key partner for sexual and reproductive health in emergencies.

In order to strengthen preparedness and improve the speed, quality and efficiency of humanitarian response in the Indo-Pacific region, Australia supports the UNFPA Regional Prepositioning Initiative to provide crisis-affected women and girls with essential supplies to address urgent sexual and reproductive health needs, and to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Supplies include dignity/hygiene kits, clean birthing kits, reproductive health kits and emergency tents.

UNFPA’s Dignity Kits help to reduce vulnerability and connect women and girls to information, support and services. Without adequate clothing, menstrual supplies and hygiene items, women and girls may be unable to access basic services, including humanitarian assistance. Dignity Kits contain underwear, basic clothing, sanitary napkins, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, laundry powder, torches and whistles, as well as information on the services that are available and how to access them. These items help people to maintain a safe and dignified life during a crisis.

In addition to the Regional Prepositioning Initiative, Australia provides support to UNFPA for specific crises, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.