The proportion of the female population living in poverty is highly significant. Overcoming the cultural constraints of Khmer society through legal and policy initiatives directly targeting the inclusion and participation of women in all aspects of the country's reconstruction and development is essential. Uncertainty for the future, the possibility of facing family violence or ostracism, the struggle to maintain family life, and economic hardship can all be consequences of widowhood. The Lebanese Red Cross ran two special programmes to assist war widows during the 1980's. From the experience gained from these programmes, the Lebanese Red Cross believes that assistance needs to be given in the form of complete social and economic programmes, which fully comply with the culture and characteristics of each country.
Social reconstruction is a priority issue which is often ignored in the context of widowhood.
With the extended family, traditionally often the source of support, either dead or missing, widows and their children are in need of priority assistance. Above all aid organisations must listen to their voices. Mechanisms must be put in place to protect widow's human rights, make them aware of their rights and integrate them into the new post-conflict economy in order that they can fully participate in civil society and raise their children. Charlotte Lindsey, ICRC, read out ICRC's Pledge given to the 27th International Conference. This pledge focuses on women affected by armed conflict.