Editorial
In Pakistan, the intersection of climate change and gender inequality is exacerbating challenges for rural women, who are already burdened by socio-economic, cultural, and legal disadvantages. These women play a crucial role in agriculture, yet lack access to land, credit, or modern farming tools, which makes them particularly vulnerable to environmental shifts such as floods, droughts, and extreme weather patterns. As climate change affects crop yields and disrupts food security, rural women struggle to feed their families, resulting in further economic hardships.
In addition to their agricultural labor, women are tasked with gathering firewood, water, and other essential resources. With climate change depleting natural resources like forests and water sources, their already demanding workloads intensify, reducing time for education, income-generating activities, and community involvement. As primary caregivers, they also bear the brunt of climate-induced health crises, taking on increased responsibilities for sick family members. These unpaid caregiving duties limit their opportunities for education, paid work, and political engagement, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
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Climate-induced food shortages worsen the plight of women and children. During times of scarcity, cultural norms often prioritize men and boys for food, leading to higher rates of malnutrition among women and girls. The resulting health problems further hinder women’s economic participation. Displacement due to natural disasters exacerbates these issues, as displaced women face risks such as sexual violence and trafficking, while losing access to vital services like education and healthcare.
The gender divide in access to decision-making power and resources also remains a critical issue. Women are often excluded from climate adaptation planning, despite their central role in managing household resources. To mitigate these challenges, gender-sensitive climate policies that empower women through education, leadership, and resource access are essential for reducing vulnerabilities and fostering resilience in rural Pakistan.
