At the Annual Community of Practice Network Convention 2024, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasized the disproportionate impact of climate change on women in Bangladesh. She discussed the challenges women face, such as water scarcity and health issues, and criticized the lack of support from developed nations, while also recognizing outstanding women-led climate initiatives.
In a poignant address at the Annual Community of Practice Network Convention 2024 held in Dhaka, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan articulated the severe impact that climate change has on women, particularly in Bangladesh. Emphasizing the role of women as primary caregivers, she stated, “Women, as primary caregivers, are responsible for putting food on the table for their children daily. This is why, during any disaster or climate change event, challenges faced by women are the greatest.” During her speech, Rizwana elaborated on the unique hardships faced by women in regions like Khulna, where the scarcity of clean water has led many women to resort to birth control methods to manage menstruation. She highlighted the alarming health implications, noting, “During pregnancy, many women suffer from high blood pressure due to the saline water. Despite an abundance of water, there is a critical shortage of safe drinking water.” The convention, which garnered support from UN Women, convened various experts and activists focused on climate adaptation and gender equality to discuss pressing issues. Rizwana pointed out the general lack of acknowledgment regarding climate change’s repercussions, stating that while individuals often voice concerns about heatwaves and floods, many are reluctant to connect these issues to the broader climate crisis. In her address, she also advocated for increased regional collaboration to address the challenges posed by climate change. Rizwana noted, “Next month, all countries will gather to discuss how to support nations affected by climate change. Developed countries burn more fossil fuels, and yet they have failed to deliver the promised funds to the affected nations through the Loss and Damage Fund. Developed nations talk big but fail to provide the necessary financial support. However, Sweden has been an exception.” In recognition of positive contributions, Rizwana bestowed awards upon five exemplary women-led initiatives aimed at fostering climate change adaptation, reinforcing the vital role that women play in climate resilience. The event was chaired by MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam, reflecting a commitment to bridging gender considerations with climate action.
Climate change is increasingly recognized as a pressing global issue that disproportionately affects certain segments of the population, particularly women, who often face unique challenges during environmental crises. Women in developing regions, such as Bangladesh, play critical roles in their communities, often managing household resources and care responsibilities. As primary caregivers, they are directly impacted by the adverse effects of climate change, including natural disasters, resource scarcity, and health crises. Addressing these disparities is essential for promoting gender equality and enhancing resilience to climate impacts.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan’s remarks at the Annual Community of Practice Network Convention underscore the significant toll that climate change imposes on women, particularly in Bangladesh. By highlighting the challenges faced by women, especially in access to clean water and health issues during environmental hardships, she calls attention to the broader implications of climate change on gender equity. Furthermore, Rizwana’s appeal for increased accountability from developed nations emphasizes a need for global solidarity and funding to support vulnerable populations. The recognition of women-led initiatives highlights the essential role women play in climate adaptation efforts, paving the way for a more equitable approach to addressing climate challenges.
Original Source: asianews.network
