Degree

BS (Social Sciences & Liberal Arts)

Faculty / School

School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS)

Department

Department of Social Sciences & Liberal Arts

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Date of Submission

2024-12-15

Advisor

Dr. Abdul Haque Chang, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Sciences

Project Type

SSLA Culminating Experience

Access Type

Restricted Access

Keywords

Climate change, Women Participation, Policy Development

Abstract

Climate change poses major threats to the socio-economic and environmental development of Gilgit-Baltistan, a region that is most affected by climate change-induced disasters. Taking into account the women’s contributions, perceptions, challenges, and barriers they face, this thesis investigates female participation in climate change adaptation and policy processes. In this mixed-methods study, including interviews and quantitative surveys conducted across six villages (Ishkoman, Immit, Hunza, Puniyal, and Yasin), this study explores how women understand climate change, their engagement in climate change adaptation and mitigation, and the barriers that hinder their involvement.

The findings indicate that despite the fact that women have important knowledge and practical experience in the sphere of sustainable agriculture, management of natural resources, and disaster risk reduction, they still face some barriers in the form of cultural attitudes and perceptions, lack of access to financial and technical resources as well as their exclusion from leadership positions. Still, the barriers exist; however, women are also very strong and engaged in climate-related projects at the community level, in environmental conservation, and in creating unique climate solutions for specific local contexts.

This research calls for gender-sensitive policy that addresses gender inequalities especially in the provision of education, funding, and in decision-making. It also emphasizes that cooperation and mobilization of male advocates is necessary to promote Gender inclusive climate governance. By empowering women and integrating their perspectives into climate strategies, the region of Gilgit-Baltistan can build a more sustainable and resilient community capable of addressing the devastating impacts of climate change.

This research contributes to the existing scholarship on gender and climate change and provides policy suggestions for policymakers, development professionals, and local actors to improve women’s engagement and agency in addressing climate change.

Pages

52

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