Women constitute a substantial segment of the global population yet remain underrepresented at climate conferences and are disproportionately affected by climate change effects. With the increasing impact of climate-related migration, it is crucial to recognize the specific challenges women face and to enhance their participation in discussions related to climate policies.
Women represent a significant portion of the global population, yet they constituted only 34 percent of delegates at the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference. The absence of gender-disaggregated data limits our understanding of climate change effects on women. Women’s limited participation hinders the development of gender-sensitive climate action, emphasizing the need for increased representation in discussions and decisions regarding climate change.
In West Africa, women are particularly affected by climate change, with an estimated 80 percent of those displaced by climate-related disasters being women. Their economic, social, and mobility restrictions exacerbate their vulnerability. Understanding regional climate challenges is critical, given the high incidence of flooding and land degradation that leads to increased migration and instability.
To effectively address the challenges posed by climate change on women, it is imperative to include them in decision-making processes at all levels. Supporting gender-specific research, promoting women leaders, and enacting gender-sensitive legislation can empower women to combat climate-related issues. Enhancing their representation will ultimately strengthen responses to climate change and reduce the gender disparity seen today.
Original Source: hir.harvard.edu
