Gender inequality and climate change are two of the most pressing global challenges of our time. And while these issues may seem unrelated on the surface, a closer examination reveals that they are intricately connected. As we deal with the impacts of a rapidly warming planet — evident from the unprecedented heat records of 2023 and the ongoing crises in vulnerable regions — the exclusion of women from climate decision-making processes not only perpetuates gender disparities but also undermines our collective efforts to adapt to and mitigate these challenges.

This report, “Beyond a seat at the table: Pathways for gender-equitable participation in climate adaptation decision-making,” sheds new light on the degree to which barriers to gender-equitable participation in climate decision-making are common across contexts and scales. Most notably, it highlights the underestimated role of negative gender attitudes and norms in driving the persistence of gender inequity, suggesting that investing in women and enhancing their capacities, albeit vital, is not sufficient.

Civil society, particularly non-governmental organizations like CARE, plays a key role in addressing these disparities. Applying its Gender Equality Framework through initiatives such as ‘She Grows the Future’, CARE adopts a multidimensional, transformative approach to gender and climate justice, not only empowering marginalized women farmers, but also supporting their collective voice and action and influencing their socio-political environment.

To take this approach further, the report provides key recommendations for policymakers, donors, and practitioners, around promoting gender-transformative climate policies, enhancing women’s access to climate-related education and resources, and addressing the underlying social norms that hinder women’s participation. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies that not only increase women’s presence in decision-making roles but also ensure their contributions are valued and impactful.

The urgency has never been greater. We must recognize that empowering women is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for effective and sustainable climate action. By acting for gender-equitable participation in climate decision-making, we can empower more resilient and inclusive communities capable of meeting the challenges of a changing climate. Let us commit to breaking the barriers that limit women’s roles and support their leadership in creating a sustainable future for all!