MANHATTAN, NEW YORK - TONI-ANNE VINELL STEWART, U.N.-OCHA OFFICER, TALKS GENDER INEQUALITY IN HUMANITARIAN CRISES, WITH FORDHAM STUDENTS

April 29, 2026 - "There is a disproportionate effect on women in a crisis," claims Toni-Anne Vinell Stewart, U.N.-OCHA gender specialist and New York native (pictured front left). During the hour-long discussion hosted by the Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs (IIHA), Fordham students got a glimpse of just how difficult a humanitarian crisis can be for a woman, how professionals can help, and how to enter the humanitarian field.

Stewart says there is an increase in female genitalia mutations and forced marriages "for protective reasons", as they believe a mutilated woman can be married more easily. A woman with a husband is more protected. 

The U.N. gender specialist also warns of a lower level of focus on menstrual health, because menstrual products are secondary to soap and other hygiene products, "This lack of dignity women should not have to go through." Aside from the humane aspect, women also tend to skip work or school when on their period. If a young woman misses one week of every month due to a lack of access to hygiene products, that could add up to 40 days per year, which are during critical years of school. 

Stewart also spoke on the issue of children without nationality: in many countries, if the father is stateless or unknown, the child is left without an official nationality, causing a series of difficulties for the child and the mother.

The U.N. gender specialist stands firmly by the claim that gender-blind methodology overlooks crucial details. At UN-OCHA, they work closely with local women's organizations to make sure all genders have a say in decision-making. She believes that her unwavering drive for gender equality gave her an edge in humanitarian work, and advises young people to find their own niche to get started in their humanitarian career.

The event took place last Wednesday, April 29, at the IIHA at Fordham University's Rose Hill campus. If you are interested in similar discussions, make sure to register for the IIHA newsletter and follow the IIHA on social media!

Special thanks to Ruth Mukwana, IIHA director of graduate humanitarian studies, for moderating the discussion.

News release by Livia Piskorán, Community Engagement Exchange Fellow

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The Institute acts as a bridge between the University and humanitarian practice, hosts lectures and symposia on a regular basis, and is the US partner for NOHA, a consortium of 12 European universities offering humanitarian education. The IIHA at 2546 Belmont Ave, Bronx, New York also provides space for undergrad and graduate students to meet and gallery showings. In addition to our courses, the IIHA publishes on a wide range of humanitarian topics, such as A Skein of Thought. Media Inquiries: [email protected].