ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION:
GENDER, INTERSECTIONALITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

The climate crisis exacerbates existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations due to intersecting factors like gender, age, race, class, and income. Women, especially those below the poverty threshold, face unique threats to their livelihoods and health.

The roundtable engaged in conversations encompassing gender, intersectionality and climate change, while seeking insights and guidance from the experts on the sub-themes for the upcoming conference scheduled in September 2024. The discussion took place in three breakout sessions, the key outcomes of each are as follows.

Breakout Session 1: Gender, Intersectionality, and Climate Change Governance

The participants highlighted the importance of mechanisms for reporting on gender-related progress, addressing complaints of discrimination, and holding stakeholders accountable for their actions. The participants emphasized that adequate funding, local ownership, and leadership are essential for the continuity of climate initiatives, ensuring that the perspectives and experiences of women and marginalized groups are at the forefront of climate change governance.

Breakout Session 2: Disaster Risk Reduction

The discussion emphasised the importance of localised risk assessments, community sensitisation, and awareness, as well as addressing regional disparities and unique vulnerabilities. During disasters, discussion revolved around resource scarcity, practical implementation, and understanding the gender-specific impacts on women and the importance of gender-specific disaster response. Post-disaster, the participants underscored the significance of evidence-based data, policy implementation, and the role of data quality in informed decision-making.

Breakout Session 3: Gender-oriented Socio-demographic Factors for Climate Change Adaptation

While identifying the issues and challenges in these areas the participants identified  the vulnerabilities faced by women in various aspects, including agriculture, the aftermath of natural disasters, employment, early marriages, and education. The discourse highlighted the importance of women’s financial independence and autonomy, the need to raise awareness and educate women and transgender individuals, and the integration of gender considerations in climate policies.