Fighting Climate Impacts On Women

For governments and activists worldwide, the months of November and December mark a period to focus on the prevalence and eradication of gender-based violence (GBV). During the 16 Days of Activism from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), numerous activities are organised globally to address violence against women and girls (VAWG). As global warming and climate change increasingly affect lives worldwide, it is critical to incorporate discussions on how these phenomena disproportionately impact women and girls into the campaign. Activism during this period should aim to raise awareness of these links and adopt resolutions to address them effectively.

Violence against women and girls occurs across the globe, irrespective of a country’s level of development. In every culture, tradition, and religion, social norms and taboos perpetuate discrimination against women, girls, and transgender communities, harming millions. Despite global progress, inequalities persist and, in some cases, appear to be worsening. Women and girls remain the last to access care in humanitarian emergencies due to societal restrictions.

Complex emergencies

The world is currently experiencing intense conflicts, resulting in heightened risks of GBV. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in five refugee women or girls living in complex emergencies is estimated to have experienced sexual violence. Such crises also exacerbate other forms of GBV, including trafficking, abduction, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. Survivors face significant barriers to accessing health care and support systems due to infrastructure destruction, restricted mobility, and associated stigma. 

Globally, an estimated 736 million women — nearly one in three — have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate or non-partner at least once in their lifetime, according to the UN. If no accelerated action is taken, 9 million girls are projected to marry in childhood by 2030. Moreover, 230 million women and girls have undergone female genital mutilation, representing a 15 per cent increase over the past 30 years. Alarmingly, the intentional killing of women and girls reached nearly 89,000 in 2022 — the highest annual record in two decades. 

Reflecting on the fact that the Beijing Declaration has become 30 years old and also several activities have been taken up globally mainly to reduce VAWG, it is a matter of big concern that atrocities against women continue to increase. Commitments have been taken and laws formulated all over the world, but why is there a delay in taking action and addressing the issue in an effective manner? 

Climate change disproportionately impacts marginalised communities, particularly women and girls. This is evident during natural disasters and in daily life as they struggle to sustain their households. Women and girls often depend on climate-sensitive work, such as farming, fetching water, washing clothes, cooking, and caregiving. These activities are tied to natural resources, making them vulnerable to climate-induced scarcities.

Women’s limited access to economic resources and finance increases their exposure to climate risks. When men migrate for work or war, women bear additional responsibilities, often under harsh conditions. Research by UNICEF highlights how climate change exacerbates GBV risks. For example, in flood-prone areas of Bangladesh, 97 per cent of out-migrants are male, leaving women and children to manage farms, engage in day labour, and pay off debts.

UNICEF’s report also notes that women are 14 times more likely to die or be injured in disasters than men. For instance, 90 per cent of casualties in the 2014 Solomon Islands flash flood were women and children. Restrictive gender norms played a role — women were more likely to be indoors caring for children and the elderly when the floods struck, with limited mobility and skills like swimming to escape. This example underscores the need to consider how climate change exacerbates the vulnerabilities of women and girls globally. Similar situation may have been prevalent during the rain-induced disasters in Nepal in 2024. Research needs to be done to find out. 

Climate change also contributes to increased mental and emotional stress for women. As caregivers and primary household managers in many societies, women are disproportionately affected by food and water shortages, leading to anxiety and depression. In regions where droughts and floods destroy crops and livelihoods, women face the added burden of ensuring the survival of their families, often at great personal cost.

Additionally, climate-induced migration often separates families, placing further strain on women. In refugee camps or makeshift settlements, women and girls face increased risks of sexual violence, exploitation, and trafficking. The absence of adequate shelter and security compounds these vulnerabilities, leaving them exposed to a cycle of trauma and poverty. Nepal is particularly vulnerable to climate change despite its low carbon emissions. The country faces severe consequences of global warming, including natural disasters and resource scarcity, which disproportionately affect women and girls.

Vulnerabilities

Communities in remote areas often bear the brunt of floods, landslides, and other climate-induced calamities. These disasters frequently isolate women and girls from critical support services, heightening their exposure to GBV. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires targeted interventions, such as improving access to education, enhancing disaster preparedness, and ensuring gender-sensitive policies in climate adaptation strategies.

As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against GBV particularly VAWG and reviews 30 years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, it is crucial to address the intersection of climate change and gender violence. Climate change serves as a catalyst, intensifying VAWG and compounding existing inequalities. Activists, policymakers, and global leaders must work collaboratively to create a world where women and girls are not only protected but also empowered to thrive in the face of changing climates.

(Sharma is a senior journalist and women’s rights advocate. namrata1964@yahoo.com, X: @NamrataSharmaP.)