At COP29 in Azerbaijan, a dispute has emerged as the Vatican, in alliance with several conservative nations, obstructs discussions aimed at enhancing support for women’s rights in climate contexts. This coalition’s opposition to references to “gender” and LGBTQ+ issues threatens to derail the Lima Work Programme on Gender and impairs essential support for women disproportionately affected by climate change.
The ongoing discussions at the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan have been marred by significant discord between the Vatican and various nations over gender rights. Reports indicate that representatives from the Vatican have joined forces with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iran, and Egypt to impede agreements aimed at bolstering support for women’s rights amid climate challenges. Many contend that the Vatican’s resistance stems from apprehensions regarding the inclusion of transgender and gay women in proposed initiatives aimed at aiding those disproportionately affected by climate change.
Colombia’s Environment Minister Susana Muhamad expressed her disapproval of the Vatican’s interference, highlighting the importance of advancing gender issues in climate negotiations. She articulated the need to maintain focus on women’s experiences during climate disasters, as they frequently bear a heavier burden due to their caregiving roles. The UN estimates that women and girls currently constitute 80% of individuals displaced by climate change, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
For over a decade, the Lima Work Programme on Gender has recognized women’s unique challenges in the context of climate change, yet recent developments signify a potential rollback of this critical progress. The Vatican, alongside its allies, has voiced objections to terminology referring to “gender,” citing concerns it encompasses transgender identities, which they oppose. This shift, characterized as part of a broader global backlash against women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, threatens to derail long-term initiatives.
Charitable organizations such as ActionAid assert that a lack of agreement at COP29 could lead to a vacuum in support for women facing climate adversities. The impending expiration of the current UN gender program further amplifies the stakes, as the absence of a renewed commitment to address gender disparities in climate response could have lasting repercussions. Observers have noted the skewed representation of women in negotiations, indicating that their voices are often marginalized, which may result in policies that inadequately address their needs.
As the conference progresses, the coalition advocating for women’s rights remains resolute in its commitment to uphold gender programs. With only a few days remaining, the outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact women’s roles in climate adaptation and resilience strategies.
The COP29 climate summit represents a critical juncture in global climate policy, particularly concerning the recognition and addressing of gender-related challenges posed by climate change. Historically, women have been disproportionately affected by environmental crises, often due to socioeconomic factors and their roles in caregiving and community support. The UN’s Lima Work Programme on Gender has aimed to facilitate discussions and implement strategies that improve the experience and support for women in this context. However, emerging opposition from conservative factions has introduced significant barriers to progress.
The unfolding events at COP29 reveal a troubling trend wherein resistance from certain nations, including the Vatican, threatens to undermine long-established gender equality initiatives within climate discussions. The potential abandonment of recognized gender frameworks in light of recent objections may not only impede vital support for women but could also hinder comprehensive climate actions. As global attention focuses on these discussions, the need for inclusive dialogue and equitable policymaking remains paramount to achieving effective climate resilience strategies for all individuals.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
