Nexus of climate change & gender-based violence
IN recent years, the intertwined crises of climate change and gender-based violence (GBV) have gained global attention. The case of Pakistan, a deeply patriarchal society with abysmal statistics on women’s rights, provides a stark example of this nexus. As the nation ranks 164th out of 167 countries on the Georgetown Institute’s Women, Peace and Security index, it is crucial to address the impact of climate change on GBV and explore possible solutions for the vulnerable communities.
Pakistan ranks among the top 10 countries in the Climate Risk Index, facing a future marked by more frequent and intense climate disasters. Simultaneously, Pakistan struggles with a high prevalence of GBV, with 34% of ever-married women experiencing physical, sexual or emotional violence from their spouses. However, most of these women do not seek help or share their experience due to cultural norms and limited resources.
Climate change exacerbates existing gender inequalities and power imbalances, which in turn intensify GBV. Disasters disproportionately affect female population as they face greater risks due to their social roles, economic dependency and cultural expectations. In a society where women face discrimination in the social, political and economic realms, climate change further magnifies the vulnerability of women and girls to GBV.
The link between climate change and GBV is particularly evident in the context of climate-induced migration. As people are forced to move due to environmental pressure, they often find themselves in precarious situations, with women and girls being at increased risk of GBV. The breakdown of traditional social structures and support networks during migration can lead to a surge in violence and harassment, both within and outside the family.
The Pakistani government must recognize the urgency of addressing the intersection of climate change and GBV. To tackle this complex challenge, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Firstly, it is essential to integrate a gender perspective into all climate change policies and programs. This involves recognizing the specific needs, vulnerabilities and capacities of women and ensuring their meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
Additionally, Pakistan must invest in comprehensive and accessible support services for GBV survivors. These services should include safe shelters, legal assistance and psychological support. In the context of climate-induced migration, government must provide protection and assistance to displaced women and girls, ensuring that their rights and dignity are respected at all times.
Furthermore, efforts to combat climate change should not overlook the critical role that women can play as agents of change. Women possess valuable knowledge and skills that can contribute to climate resilience and adaptation. For example, women’s traditional knowledge of natural resource management and their role as primary caregivers make them key actors in climate-resilient development. By empowering women to participate in the design and implementation of climate change solutions, Pakistan can foster more sustainable and inclusive development.
Finally, the government must invest in long-term prevention strategies to address the root causes of GBV. This includes promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women. Initiatives such as community-based education programs, awareness campaigns and engagement with religious and community leaders can be instrumental in shifting societal attitudes towards GBV.
In conclusion, the challenges posed by climate change and gender-based violence in Pakistan demand urgent attention and action. As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, it is imperative to address the gendered dimensions of these crises and prioritize the needs and rights of women and girls.
By acknowledging the inter-connectedness of climate change, GBV, and migration, Pakistan can develop comprehensive and effective policies that both mitigate climate risks and promote gender equality.
—The author is a public policy & governance specialist with a focus on climate change and community resilience.
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