During times of disaster, women frequently face a heightened risk of gender-based violence, a situation intensified by pre-existing inequalities, as highlighted by Jean Clarisse T Carlos, a project development officer at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies. Speaking at the recent Global Development Conference’s plenary session focused on Environmental Policy, Governance, and Implementation, Ms. Carlos brought attention to the negative impact of cultural stereotypes, which often depict women primarily as caregivers. These stereotypes hinder women’s access to vital resources, leadership opportunities, and involvement in decision-making.
Ms. Carlos emphasized the importance of adopting an intersectional approach in policymaking. By doing so, policymakers can tackle the fundamental causes of inequality and create inclusive, equitable solutions that empower vulnerable groups and build resilience. She posed critical questions regarding whose voices are represented in decision-making processes, who benefits from policies, and who may be excluded.
She asserted that integrating intersectionality into environmental governance could inspire a shift towards more sustainable, inclusive, and effective interventions. It is essential to empower marginalized communities to engage in decision-making and appreciate their unique contributions to resilience and sustainability.
This call for more inclusive policymaking not only addresses inequities but also fosters a stronger, more resilient community capable of thriving in the face of environmental challenges. By recognizing and valuing the experiences of women and other marginalized groups, society can create a more balanced and effective approach to crisis management and disaster response.
Overall, this conversation underscores the necessity of reexamining existing frameworks to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender or background, has an opportunity to contribute to solutions that benefit the entire community.
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