Women in Climate Change Crises Solutions: Centrality and Empowerment for Resilience

Abstract

This study examines the crucial role played by women in fighting climate change crises and underscores the urgent need for their empowerment. Recognizing the complex challenges faced by women, including health risks, violence, displacement, and limited access to resources, the study delves into the underlying systemic factors intensifying their vulnerability. While adopting Radical Feminism theory as a lens, we acknowledge the importance of considering intersecting factors such as race, class, and geography in understanding women's experiences. Drawing from a comprehensive analysis of secondary sources, the study explores the ways in which women, despite their vulnerability, emerge as key agents of adaptation and resilience. Through their traditional roles in resource management and caregiving, women often lead efforts to mitigate environmental degradation and develop adaptive strategies in the aftermath of crises. Notably, our findings highlight the relationship between female leadership and effective crisis response, as evidenced by the instantaneous and decisive actions taken by states led by women during the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of these insights, the study proposes plausible recommendations for empowering women in the face of climate change crises. These include the establishment of gender-sensitive projects, support for women in green economies, and the promotion of women's participation in decision-making processes. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating gender considerations into resilience-building efforts and increasing funding for initiatives addressing gender-specific vulnerabilities. By amplifying the centrality of women in climate change solutions and advocating for their empowerment, the study aims to foster greater resilience in the face of environmental challenges.