We are proud to share this collection of inspiring stories about women climate defenders from around the world who we support. While women lead on climate solutions in their communities, they frequently lack representation at high-level climate discussions. We want to change that!
Women and climate change
Did you know that climate change disproportionately affects women? Globally, women often perform crucial tasks such as collecting water, farming, gathering firewood, and maintaining households. These activities are severely impacted by climate change-induced events like floods and droughts, requiring women to work harder to safeguard their families’ livelihoods.
Despite their significant contributions, and the challenges they face, women and their needs are hardly represented in decision-making processes. On average, women hold only a quarter of the seats in national parliaments worldwide. For instance, when Azerbaijan announced its 28-member organizing committee for the 2024 COP29 climate conference, not a single woman was initially included.
Changing the narrative
This collection showcases several outstanding women from our Voices for Just Climate Action network. Like Conceição, who files legal actions against major polluters in the Brazilian Amazon; Halima, who leads a Tunisian organization that supports women farmers affected by drought; and Natasha from Zambia, who facilitates discussions between women and policymakers to address community challenges and needs in the face of climate change.
The work these women do in their communities varies. But all three are driven by the belief that sustainable climate action cannot succeed if half the population – their half – is consistently left out of relevant decision-making. True climate justice ensures that every voice is heard, particularly those of the most vulnerable groups affected by the climate crisis.
