Jean Lambert MEP will be visiting Georgia this week to study the reproductive health needs of internally displaced people in the aftermath of the conflict with Russia.
Many health concerns have been raised about the displaced population, and specifically the unique health needs of women and girls.
These include basic hygiene issues as well as problems caused by malnutrition and a lack of necessary clothing. There is an urgent need for sanitary towels, underwear, soap and shampoo in the region, as well as multivitamins.
Of the displaced population in the region, 30,000 are women of reproductive age affected by the conflict. These women and girls are in need of sanitary supplies for menstruation - for their health along with their dignity.
The health infrastructure in Shida Kratli, the most affected region, has been destroyed, leaving pregnant women with a lack of proper care. This has lead to an increased risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
In addition to these issues, the conflict has led to an increase in the risk of sexual and gender based violence and sexually transmitted infections.
As a Member of theEuropean Parliament’s Working Group on Reproductive Health, HIV/AIDS and Development, Jean Lambert will visit sites with temporary shelters for internally displaced people, and will meet with representatives from the UN Reproductive Health Initiative for Youth in South Caucasus. She will also meet with members of the Government and Parliament of Georgia.
A small group of Parliamentarians from across Europe will join Jean on her visit to Georgia, lasting from Thursday 18 until Saturday 20 September.