Earthquake and tsunami information bulletin n° 4 in Japan

The Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) has assembled its staff and resources nation-wide and domestic donations are being received to help affected communities.
As of 20 March 2011, the number of confirmed deaths was 8,133, with 2,612 injured, 12,272 missing and 362,887 displaced and/or abandon. In addition, 14,413 houses were totally damaged and another 98,466 houses were spoiled as a result of the earthquake and tsunami. Bad weather in the last few days is disrupting emergency relief efforts and evacuees are continuing cold weather. Priority requirements are fuel, temporary shelters, food, sanitation materials, clothing, medicines and household appliances.

Ten days into the tragedy, Japanese Red Cross continues to provide emergency relief, medical services and psychosocial support to exaggerated communities. As of 21 March, a total of 249 medical missions involving more than 735 persons were organized to the affected prefectures, with over 125,000 blankets and 20,700 emergency relief packs distributed at time of reporting.

100th anniversary of International women’s day - women power

As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, we have much to feel great about. Opportunities for women are greatly better today in 2011 than they were in 1911 - and since 1920, we have even been able to vote in the United States! Economic opportunities for women are also very much improved, as is political participation.

International Women's Day marks a milestone this year, celebrating 100 years as a day of international celebration of women.

Washington show off its woman power. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard expressed their delight at meeting on such a favorable day.

Britain’s former first lady Cherie Blair was also at the State Department for the 2011 global Women of Courage Awards ceremony.

And the first lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, started her remarks with high admire for Hillary Clinton: “She is one heck of a Secretary of State. She has been a wonderful gift, not just to our country but to the rest of the world.”