Interrelationship between Climate Change and Women’s Health

A Study in Human Rights Perspective

Abstract

This article examines the heightened vulnerability of women to environmental disasters and extreme weather events stemming from economic hardship, sexual and reproductive health issues, gender discrimination, and limited social mobility. These gender-specific impacts permeate various aspects of women’s lives including housing, transportation, food, health, and political participation, infringing on rights and wellbeing. However, such differential impacts are excluded from governmental data and academic literature. Moreover, climate change effects on women are overlooked and women’s involvement in climate policymaking is restricted. Investigating the complex interrelation between women, environment, and climate change, the article finds women more susceptible to climate change impacts due to socially imposed gender constraints limiting choices and enabling environmental injustices. Utilizing an intersectional gender lens, climate justice issues are also scrutinized alongside initiatives promoting gender equity and women’s leadership to advance local and global climate justice. This necessitates gender-responsive adaptation and mitigation efforts while tackling exacerbated gender-based violence and discrimination. Additionally, concepts of ecofeminism, women-led movements, and female environmentalists are examined. Ultimately, prioritizing gender justice by increasing cognizance of differential climate change impacts and representation of women and marginalized groups in climate policymaking is vital for equitable and sustainable development.