Assessing Gender-Responsive Climate Action Strategies in Pakistan through the lens of SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 13 (Climate Action)

Abstract

The phenomenon of climate change has not only exacerbated human suffering but also limited human freedom and choices. Climate change affects everyone, however, the impacts of climate change are not equal. The vulnerability index varies from human to human and among different communities. Women and men experience the effects of climate change differently, where women are disproportionately impacted due to many socio-political and economic factors. This research investigates how gender considerations are integrated into climate action strategies in Pakistan, analyzing through the frameworks of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The study focuses on recent national climate policies, particularly the Climate Change Gender Action Plan (ccGAP) 2022 and the National Adaptation Plan 2023, to assess their gender responsiveness. By using a gender-responsive climate action framework, the research delves into climate-gender nexus and explores the intricate relationships of climate change, gender inequality, and interlinked socio-cultural dynamics. Understanding gender and climate linkage has been found important in forming inclusive, effective and operative strategies to address climate change and promote gender equality. Findings reveal women's critical but often overlooked vulnerabilities to climate threats and their under-representation in climate-related policy planning and decision-making. Gender considerations are integrated into Pakistan's current climate policies. Yet, this integration does not translate into effective implementation, with a disjunction between recognition and actual planning, which indicates a significant gap in policy execution. By exploring the intersection of gender, climate, and policy, the study investigates Pakistan’s decision-making processes, different stakeholder involvement, collaboration efforts, and future directions, aiming to foster greater resilience in Pakistan's climate adaptation efforts. The thesis proposes enhanced political commitment to gender-inclusivity and improving women’s participation in climate policy-making.