How can population and gender aspects be integrated into policy analysis and decision-making related to climate change? The resource kit Climate Change Connections: Gender and Population - developed by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Women’s Environment and Development Organization (WEDO) - is designed to build capacity and provide tools and strategies for analysis and action on climate change. It is innovative in the way it integrates gender analysis and population dynamics to increase understanding of complex issues and underlying constraints prevalent that thread throughout the climate change debate. The resource kit supports policy makers, governments and activists to more clearly understand relevant linkages.Climate change threatens to set back development efforts by decades, profoundly affecting all of us. But the impact won’t be felt equally. Those with the fewest resources will be most susceptible to its negative effects – particularly women, the majority of the world’s poor. In many parts of the world, gender inequalities still hinder women’s equal access to decision-making, formal financial systems, land ownership, reproductive health care, education and information, undermining their well-being in addition to that of their families and communities.
At the same time, women’s vulnerability can obscure the fact that they are an untapped resource in efforts to cope with the effects of climate change and reduce the emissions that cause it. As innovators, organizers, leaders, educators and caregivers, women are uniquely positioned to help curb the harmful consequences of a changing climate. Incorporating a gender perspective into climate change policies, projects and funds is crucial in ensuring that women contribute to and benefit from equitable climate solutions.
The kit provides resources for individuals acting at all levels, from community advocacy to national policy development, including such issues as financing action on climate change. It also provides overview information, a clear analysis approach and defined strategies for working with various stakeholders. A range of international case studies are provided to support increased critical dialogue and learning in this under explored area of work on climate change.
