Climate change is an existential threat to humanity. It is increasing humanitarian needs, imperiling human rights and impacting the health, welfare and dignity of people, especially those in marginalized and vulnerable communities. It is rocking the very foundations of peace and security.
Women and girls are disproportionately affected, facing increased poverty, food insecurity and gender-based violence, as well as disrupted sexual and reproductive health and protection services.
The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) is a key opportunity to accelerate action to tackle the crisis. The event, which is being held in Belém, Brazil, brings together leaders from governments, business and civil society to discuss efforts to limit the global temperature increase, and to present new action plans and review progress on finance pledges.
Indeed, the climate crisis is shaping all aspects of development, with implications for fertility aspirations, climate migration, demographic shifts, inequality and urbanization. Leaders need to take an inclusive, human rights-based approach to addressing this crisis.
All national climate plans must include investment in health and protection services for women and girls. Currently, such investment falls far short of commitments. In addition, emergency preparedness and response to climate shocks must be strengthened, by building resilient systems that safeguard sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender-based violence services. Countries must build gender-responsive data and technology systems to anticipate and respond to climate vulnerability. Governments need to leverage this critical data with demographic intelligence to inform policies and investments.
You can learn more about COP30 here.
