A recent study conducted by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) has shed light on the underrepresentation of women from the world’s Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in global climate negotiations. The findings highlight significant barriers preventing female delegates from participating in critical discussions under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Since 2008, women have accounted for only one-third of all UNFCCC delegates, and just 10% of delegation heads have been women. However, the situation is particularly concerning in LDCs, where female representation is significantly lower than in other regions. The study identifies key obstacles and explores possible solutions to improve gender balance in climate negotiations.
Barriers to Women’s Participation in Climate Negotiations
The study, which surveyed 143 individuals from LDCs and analyzed case studies from Rwanda, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone, found that two-thirds of respondents (64%) believe barriers prevent women from taking active roles in climate negotiations. Additionally, 66% felt that women were underrepresented in leadership roles at UNFCCC discussions.
Several challenges contribute to this gender imbalance, including:
Limited Leadership Opportunities – Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions within climate and environmental sectors, making it difficult for them to enter high-level negotiations.
Cultural and Institutional Barriers – Traditional gender roles, restrictive laws, and workplace biases limit opportunities for women to engage in decision-making processes.
Lack of Educational and Financial Resources – Women in LDCs often have limited access to quality education, specialized training, and financial support necessary to participate in climate policy discussions.
Absence of Support Systems – Logistical challenges such as childcare responsibilities, travel restrictions, and lack of mentorship programs hinder women’s involvement in global climate talks.
Nearly half (48%) of those surveyed felt that their governments were not doing enough to support female representation in negotiating teams. The study emphasizes that without intentional efforts to address these barriers, the gender gap in climate negotiations will persist.
Despite these challenges, the study highlights encouraging efforts in Rwanda, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone to increase women’s participation in climate negotiations:
Mozambique is implementing qualification criteria that prioritize female representation in delegation selection.
Rwanda has institutionalized gender equality and women’s empowerment within its UNFCCC engagement framework.
Sierra Leone has introduced a more transparent nomination process for climate negotiators.
These initiatives provide a roadmap for other LDCs to follow in order to enhance gender inclusion in climate discussions
To address the gender imbalance in climate negotiations, the report outlines several key recommendations:
Strengthening Policy and Institutional Support – Governments should develop policies that actively promote the inclusion of women in climate delegations.Providing Targeted Funding – Financial support should be allocated to programs that help women gain the necessary skills and resources for participation in UNFCCC meetings.
Establishing Selection Criteria for Delegations – Countries should implement transparent and gender-sensitive selection processes for climate negotiators.
Offering Gender-Focused Training – Workshops and mentorship programs can help women develop negotiation skills and leadership capabilities.
Improving Session Logistics – UNFCCC meetings should incorporate childcare services and flexible scheduling to accommodate women delegates.
Enhancing Capacity-Building Initiatives – More funding should be directed toward organizations that empower women and youth in climate negotiations.
Women, particularly those from LDCs, bring valuable perspectives to climate negotiations. As frontline defenders against climate change, they possess firsthand knowledge of how environmental challenges impact vulnerable communities. Ensuring their voices are heard in global decision-making processes is crucial for crafting inclusive and effective climate policies.
By implementing these recommendations, LDCs and international organizations can take meaningful steps toward gender equality in climate governance. A more balanced representation will not only empower women but also lead to more comprehensive and sustainable climate solutions.
