Climate change is exacerbating existing social injustices, with women and girls, particularly in vulnerable communities, bearing the brunt of the impact as per the reports of Leaders sources. According to a recent UN report, extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes are not only devastating communities but are amplifying gender inequalities. Intimate partner violence surges, girls are forced out of school, early marriages increase, and women and girls displaced from their homes face a heightened risk of sexual exploitation and trafficking.
According to the reports of Leaders sources, Selwin Hart, UN Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Climate Action and Just Transition, emphasized the stark reality: “When we look at who’s affected worse, who’s on the frontlines of the climate crisis, it’s primarily women—women in poor and vulnerable countries. And unfortunately, our policies or strategies are really not geared to address this challenge.”
To shed light on the intersection of climate change and gender inequality, CNN collaborated with seven women photojournalists who documented the struggles and resilience of women and girls across seven nations in the Global South. The visual project captures both the devastating effects of the climate crisis and the ways in which these women are fighting for survival.
Each photograph offers a glimpse into the daily lives of women navigating a rapidly changing climate. While the images portray the struggles they face, they also highlight their strength and determination. From communities devastated by storms to rural villages battling droughts, these women are at the forefront of climate action, advocating for a future where gender inequality is not compounded by climate disasters.
The project serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for climate policies that address the unique challenges faced by women and girls, especially in vulnerable regions. As the world continues to grapple with the climate crisis, it is clear that the fight for gender equality and climate justice must go hand in hand.
