16 Days Of Activism: How Climate Change Fuels Gender Based Violence

Twongirwe Ireen

Women continue to suffer Gender Based violence in the face of climate change. Women are not just victims of climate crisis but also the change makers in our communities.95% of Ugandan women have experienced physical and sexual violence which is seemingly exacerbated by climate change.

Research has it that women and girls are up to 14 times more harmed during a disaster. For those who survive, climate-induced disasters can intensify gender inequalities, making them more vulnerable to GBV, even when life for others may go back to normal.

During time for resource scarcity, women and girls are more likely to be forced into sexual exploitation in exchange of what they do not have for example sanitary pads to the girls, and walk increasingly longer distances to find water for domestic use and food due to climate induced poverty, making them vulnerable to sexual assault and make them prone to domestic violence in their homes. Similarly, when families are unable to meet basic needs, the risk of child marriage increases significantly because girls are seen as sources of wealth to their families. So, during the scarcity some families marry away their daughters in exchange of dowry and thus limiting their education.

Despite women being at the frontline they remain under represented in climate leadership. The fight for gender equity must include advocating for women’s participation in policy making.

The failure to act on gender-based violence and climate change will continue undermining community resilience to climate change, which further inhibits development progress.

As we observe the 16 days of activism, we need to challenge ourselves to and think beyond traditional silos of environmentalism and gender advocacy.

Compiled by: Ainembabazi Shallon

Programs Officer

Women For Green Economy Movement