Gender and Climate Justice – Implications for Policy Formation in the Caribbean Region

Abstract

The Caribbean is one of the most vulnerable regions in the world to the adverse effects of climate change. In addition, major inequalities exist in the region, particularly around gender, climate change and extreme weather events. Climate impacts are often mediated and experienced in the context of vulnerability, as vulnerable subgroups are least able to adapt to changing climatic conditions. Existing socioeconomic vulnerabilities of women are exacerbated by the impacts of climate change due to a lack of physical, economic and political autonomy. This paper assesses thirteen international and regional policies through the lens of the three elements of women’s autonomy in the region (physical, economic, and political autonomy). Three principles are identified through this analysis, and used as indicators to assess the national gender, climate, and disaster policies of thirteen Caribbean countries. This assessment identifies significant gaps and opportunities that exist for policy formation in the region in the context of gender and climate change.