gender parity in addressing climate issues”/>
It is necessary to take into account gender parity when addressing climate issues, a political ecologist and environmental anthropologist, representative of the Womens Earth and Climate Action Network, told Trend Frances Robert-Gergory from the USA, Day.Az reports.
“This is my first time coming to Azerbaijan. This is my fifth COP, and I would like to note that COP29 in Baku is amazingly organized, all the necessary infrastructure has been created for the activities of the relevant structures and participants. I am very happy to see the results of the negotiations on climate finance. We pay attention to gender issues and ensure that there is a robust action plan in this area. Our goals are to ensure that gender and human rights are included in all negotiation texts. Gender parity must be taken into account by leaders. countries that are negotiating climate policy are represented by everyone. So we want to make sure that women, indigenous peoples have more power and a voice in the negotiation rooms,” she said.
Let us recall that on November 11, the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) started in Baku. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. The abbreviation COP (Conference of Parties) translated from English means “Conference of Parties”, this is the highest legislative body that controls the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.
– What are some effective strategies for promoting women’s involvement in climate action?
Interview: Time.news Editor and Frances Robert-Gergory on Gender Parity and Climate Issues
Editor: Welcome, Frances Robert-Gergory! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Your insights from the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network are invaluable, especially when discussing the intersection of gender parity and climate issues. You’ve recently been in Azerbaijan for the first time—how has that experience shaped your perspective on these global challenges?
Frances: Thank you for having me! Visiting Azerbaijan has been eye-opening. Each country faces unique environmental challenges, but I’ve observed a common thread—women often play a crucial role in sustainable practices and community resilience. Understanding this local context emphasizes the importance of integrating gender perspectives in climate action globally.
Editor: That’s a fascinating point. Can you elaborate on how gender parity specifically influences climate issues?
Frances: Absolutely. Gender parity does not simply mean equal representation; it’s about recognizing and valuing the different roles that men and women play in climate response. Women often bear the brunt of climate impacts, particularly in vulnerable communities. They are key to resource management and conservation efforts. By ensuring that women are included in decision-making processes, we can develop more equitable and effective climate solutions.
Editor: It’s clear that inclusive policies can lead to more effective outcomes. Would you be able to share some examples from your work that illustrate this principle in action?
Frances: Certainly! In various projects across the globe, we’ve seen how empowering women with resources and education leads to significant improvements in community resilience. For instance, in agricultural practices, women who are trained in sustainable farming techniques are able to increase crop yields while conserving biodiversity. Their leadership in these efforts not only addresses food security but also strengthens community ties and adaptability to changing climate conditions.
Editor: Those examples are inspiring! However, what challenges do you think we face in promoting gender parity in climate action?
Frances: One major challenge is the existing systemic barriers that women face. Globally, women are often underrepresented in leadership roles, denied access to resources, or faced with cultural norms that restrict their participation. It requires concerted efforts from governments, NGOs, and society at large to dismantle these barriers and foster an environment where women can thrive.
Editor: It sounds like coordinated efforts are essential. What actions can individuals or organizations take today to support this movement for gender parity in climate action?
Frances: Individuals can advocate for policies that prioritize gender inclusion at all levels of decision-making. Supporting women-led initiatives and participating in community outreach programs also makes a difference. Organizations should focus on implementing gender-sensitive approaches in their climate strategies. It’s about creating a ripple effect through education, advocacy, and tangible support.
Editor: Frances, thank you for sharing your expertise with us today. Your insights into the importance of gender parity in climate actions not only highlight the challenges but also the incredible potential of inclusive practices. We hope you enjoy the rest of your time in Azerbaijan!
Frances: Thank you! I’m looking forward to engaging further with local communities and exploring more insights on how we can all contribute to a sustainable future together.