Intersection of gender and climate resilience: Strategies for empowering women in vulnerable and developing communities, a systematic review.

Abstract

The convergence of gender inequality and climate change presents significant challenges, particularly for women in vulnerable communities who are disproportionately affected by climate-related shocks and stress systemic disadvantages. These disadvantages include unequal access to income, resources, and decision-making processes, which reduce their capacity to adapt and respond to climate change. However, recognising women as critical leaders and agents of change is essential for developing effective and sustainable climate resilience strategies.

An intersectional approach is vital for understanding the complexities of how climate change impacts women differently based on their socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and other factors. This approach enables the design of targeted interventions to address specific needs and vulnerabilities of diverse groups of women. Gender-responsive and gender-transformative policies and initiatives are needed in both public and private sectors to address gender issues related to climate change, which can lead to lasting and beneficial changes.

Empowering women to climate action leads to better outcomes including improved resource management, conservation, and disaster readiness. Women’s participation in local climate change responses and decision making is crucial for inclusive and effective climate actions. Strategies such as the gender transformation mechanism (GTM) challenge gender norms and promote climate resilience by including gender in climate solutions. Ensuring that climate finance flows are gender responsive presents a significant opportunity to advance both gender equality and climate action.  By prioritizing gender equity and placing women at the forefront of climate and security strategies, communities can build resilience and promote lasting peace.