At COP29 in Azerbaijan, climate discussions reveal alarming backsliding on gender considerations, with key language regarding women’s experiences being removed from draft proposals. Saudi Arabia and Russia play pivotal roles in opposing gender-focused language, creating a backdrop of concern among participants. Women, disproportionately affected by climate crises, continue to be underrepresented in decision-making, reinforcing the urgency for gender-responsive initiatives in climate finance and policy frameworks.
Baku (AFP) – Amid ongoing climate negotiations, participants have expressed increasing concerns regarding a decline in gender considerations within discussions. Historical climate summits have consistently emphasized the importance of including women, who are recognized as being disproportionately affected by climate-related issues. However, during COP29 in Azerbaijan, references to women’s experiences, and even the term “diversity,” have been removed from draft proposals, as highlighted by Mary Robinson, Ireland’s first female president and a key figure in these negotiations.
A significant driving force behind the removal of gender-related language has been Saudi Arabia, which, along with support from Russia, has promoted traditional values at the climate conference. According to Robinson, these opposing factions feel they have gained a renewed confidence in their stance, viewing the current situation as a backlash against advances in gender rights seen in the United States and parts of Europe that are experiencing right-wing governance.
While COP29 has maintained one mention of gender by insisting that climate finance should be “human rights-based and gender-responsive,” the overall atmosphere indicates a potential regression. A proposal to extend the Lima initiative, established in 2014 to systematically integrate gender considerations within the UN climate framework, is pending. Critics have noted that official opposition to gender language remains subtle, although the sentiment is evident.
The reality remains that women and girls constitute approximately 80 percent of those displaced by climate change, heightening their vulnerability to exploitation. Ironically, the decision-makers in these discussions remain predominantly male. Last year’s COP28 in Dubai saw 34 percent of delegates being women, a notable figure recognized by various activists. The German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, emphasized the need for unity in addressing climate challenges on a gender-inclusive front.
Activist Ayshka Najib lamented the lack of priority given to gender issues by the Azerbaijani hosts, suggesting that expectations regarding advocacy for gender inclusivity during COP29 have not been met. Canada’s climate negotiator, Catherine Stewart, echoed concerns over the potential regression of gender considerations in climate dialogues, stating that any text reverting progress is unacceptable.
In summary, the current climate negotiations indicate a troubling trend away from gender inclusivity. With the significant impact of climate change on women and the existing gender gap in decision-making roles, activists and delegates are pressing for renewed commitment to gender-responsive policies in future climate discussions.
The topic of this article revolves around the importance of gender considerations in climate negotiations. Historically, women have been disproportionately affected by climate change, facing increased risks from environmental disasters. Previous climate summits have underscored the need for their inclusion in decision-making processes. However, recent discussions, particularly at COP29, have seen a notable decline in gender-related language, raising concerns among delegates and activists regarding potential setbacks in gender equity within climate strategies.
The developments at COP29 reveal a concerning regression in the incorporation of gender considerations within global climate discussions. With women significantly impacted by climate change and underrepresented in decision-making forums, the need for a sustained focus on gender inclusivity is more critical than ever. Activists and policymakers alike are urged to advocate for robust gender-responsive frameworks that recognize the diverse experiences and challenges faced by women in climate contexts.
Original Source: www.france24.com
