Abstract

Global progress towards gender equality in all spheres of our societies is still too slow to realize the full potential of women within our lifetime. ¹ Existing inequalities between men and women, such as access to natural and productive resources, social status and decision-making, can be exacerbated by climate change impacts. At the same time, climate mitigation and adaptation measures that do not take gender dimensions and women’s empowerment into account could increase existing inequalities, therewith endangering human rights. As of 2014, 143 out of the 195 countries guarantee equality between women and men in their constitution, yet discrimination between women and men persists in many areas, directly and indirectly through laws and policies, gender-based stereotypes and social norms and practices. ² Initially limited to considerations related to women’s participation and representation in technical climate change bodies, gender equality has come a long way under the UNFCCC and is now recognized among the human rights’ obligations to consider when undertaking climate action.