In the face of the global climate crisis, water has become a primary medium through which human life is affected. Azerbaijan’s deputy minister of energy and chief executive officer of COP29, Elnur Soltanov, has highlighted that 90% of the impacts of climate change reach people through water.
He emphasises that water is not only central to environmental issues but also plays a crucial role in global social balance, particularly affecting vulnerable populations and women.
Women at the Frontlines: Gender Inequality in Water Access and Climate Impact
Soltanov noted that women are among the groups most deeply impacted by climate change. “In many countries, women play vital roles in household management and daily life, yet their economic contributions are often not formally recognised,” he explained. He further pointed out that when climate change exacerbates water scarcity or deteriorates water quality, it is often women who bear the initial burden, as they are responsible for managing water resources within households but are limited in decision-making authority.
Soltanov’s perspective sheds light on the gender inequalities inherent in global climate challenges. He stressed that addressing water resource issues must include considerations of women’s needs and contributions to reduce the social pressures climate change imposes.
Advocating Gender Equality: COP29’s Commitment to Women’s Issues
Soltanov underscored the importance of women’s issues at COP29: “The topic of women’s issues is not only a key discussion point at COP29, but something that demands the attention of us all.” Recognising the contributions of women, Soltanov affirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to gender equality in global climate action.
As part of the “Year of Green World Solidarity,” COP29 will host events co-organised by Azerbaijan’s National Committee on Family, Women and Children’s Affairs, the State Water Agency, and ADA University, all focusing on the role of gender equality in responding to climate change.
Fostering Women’s Roles in Water Resource Management and Promoting Gender Equality
COP29 will not only discuss the effects of climate change on women’s lives but also encourage women to take on broader roles in water resource protection and management. Soltanov stated that the Azerbaijani government, through COP29 initiatives, aims to promote more opportunities for women in water resource management, ensuring gender balance in staffing and granting women a place in key climate action roles.
“We aim not only to direct efforts into environmental and climate action but also to make a global statement on the need for gender equality in climate governance. All nations must show a commitment to advancing gender equality,” Soltanov concluded.
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