COP28: She highlighted the critical need for gender-responsive climate policies, with a particular emphasis on the challenges faced by women in India
Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton underscored the imperative for gender-responsive climate policies, emphasising the particular challenges faced by women in India.
Speaking at a session on "Empowering Communities: Women at the Heart of Climate Resilience" during the COP28 global climate talks on Sunday, Clinton drew attention to the severe impacts of extreme heat, predominantly driven by climate change, which disproportionately affect women's livelihoods, health, and social fabric.
Highlighting the critical need for gender-sensitive climate policies, Clinton specifically addressed the challenges encountered by women in India due to extreme heat. Recognising the unique vulnerabilities faced by women in the country, she emphasised the urgent need to address the on-the-ground realities for millions of people, particularly women, as the climate crisis unfolds.
Clinton, drawing on her longstanding association with the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA) in India, shed light on the multifaceted impact of extreme heat on women working in the informal sector.
Beyond being a health concern, she characterised it as an economic, social, and political issue, particularly significant for women engaged in labor-intensive occupations in India's informal sector.
Expressing concern over opposition to women's rights and opportunities globally, Clinton referenced a recent statement by Chinese President Xi Jinping encouraging women to prioritise marriage and childbearing.
She voiced worry about leaders in various countries promoting messages urging women to withdraw from the workforce, stay at home, and have more children, while legislative changes diminish women's roles and erode their rights.
Reema Nanavaty, Director of SEWA, joined Clinton in shedding light on the challenges faced by Indian women workers due to climate shocks. Nanavaty highlighted the difficulties experienced by women involved in street vending, construction, and other labor-intensive occupations.
Both Clinton and Nanavaty emphasised the urgent need for actionable solutions. Clinton called for a Global Climate Resilience Fund specifically targeting women, especially in India, emphasising a bottom-up approach.
Nanavaty echoed this call for a unique fund for the Global South, stressing the need for collaboration to create a sustainable and resilient future for women not only in India but globally.
The global climate talks are currently taking place in Dubai, with participation from over 100,000 people representing 198 countries.