Women face unique vulnerabilities in the face of climate change, particularly in West Africa, where they are disproportionately affected by displacement, economic challenges, and health risks. Their underrepresentation in climate discussions limits effective action. Addressing these gendered impacts requires funding gender-specific research and supporting women’s leadership, ultimately fostering inclusive solutions to climate challenges.
Women represent 49.6 percent of the global population but only 34 percent of delegates at the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference. This underrepresentation impedes efforts to address the gender-specific impacts of climate change, as limited gender-disaggregated data restricts our understanding of such effects. Women’s involvement is crucial for fostering gender-sensitive climate action and combating climate change effectively.
From 2008 to 2022, climate displacement increased by 41 percent, with women making up 80 percent of those displaced. Socioeconomic restrictions, mobility limitations, and patriarchal structures make women particularly vulnerable in West Africa, exacerbating their challenges during climate-induced migration. To tackle these issues, it is essential to fund gender-specific climate research, promote female leadership, and advocate for gender-sensitive policies.
West Africa is especially susceptible to climate-related disasters, affecting the region’s inhabitants socially and environmentally. Seasonal weather shifts have led to increased flooding, water scarcity, and land degradation, forcing many to abandon their homes. Projections suggest up to 32 million people could be displaced by climate impacts by 2050, drastically affecting the status of women in the region.
Internal climate migration will peak in Niger, potentially displacing 19.1 million people by 2050, with Nigeria following at 9.4 million. Drought and flooding are significant factors driving migrations in Senegal, one of West Africa’s vital fishing economies. The region’s ongoing changes and rising disaster incidents underscore the urgent need to address these challenges for women.
Gender restrictions contribute to women being disproportionately impacted during climate disasters, as evidenced by their 14-fold higher mortality rates compared to men. In Cameroon, women require male consent to obtain passports, limiting their ability to migrate for safety. Their domestic responsibilities further hinder relocation, leaving them more vulnerable to climate-induced crises.
Resource scarcity linked to climate change intensifies conflicts in West Africa, which in turn heightens gender-based violence. The UN Security Council recognizes this dynamic as a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating existing security risks. As food becomes scarce, women often face desperate situations, including trading sex for sustenance and being sold into marriage as a survival mechanism.
The economic impacts of climate change disproportionately affect women, particularly in agriculture, where they account for a significant portion of the workforce. The gap in resources and land ownership severely limits women’s capacity to adapt to changing climatic conditions. By 2050, it is projected that food insecurity will increase among women and girls, further jeopardizing their economic status.
Health challenges linked to climate and migration are further compounded for women, who require additional resources for menstruation, pregnancy, and caregiving. Instability amidst disasters hinders access to vital medical care, clean water, and sanitation. Consequently, women face heightened health risks, particularly related to maternal and reproductive health.
To address the gendered implications of climate change migration, empowering women as change agents is critical. Supporting women-owned businesses and promoting gender-sensitive policies can lead to significant improvements in their communities. Collaborative movements like “We Are the Solution” have already begun to foster women’s leadership in climate adaptation efforts, demonstrating the potential for impactful change when women are included.
Women possess insights into their community’s gendered challenges and seek to enact meaningful policy changes. Empowering women in decision-making roles is essential for safe migration, improved economic opportunities, and addressing gender-based violence. Supporting such initiatives can create inclusive and sustainable solutions in the face of climate change.
The Interplay of Gender and Climate Change in West Africa reveals that women are disproportionately affected by climate change, making their inclusion in climate discussions essential. Despite their significant presence in the population, women are underrepresented in climate negotiations, which undermines efforts for inclusive solutions. Understanding the specific vulnerabilities women face in context with climate migration is essential for developing effective policies that address both gender and environmental challenges in West Africa.
In summary, the intersection of gender and climate change in West Africa presents significant challenges that necessitate immediate attention. Women must be recognized as crucial stakeholders in climate discussions and policy formulation. Addressing their economic, health, and mobility needs, while fostering their leadership, will enhance resilience against climate impacts and promote sustainable development in the region. Furthermore, actions aimed at empowering women are not only necessary but also instrumental in combating climate-related adversities.
Original Source: hir.harvard.edu
