The 2023 Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Gender Forum, titled “2 Billion Changemakers: Women Leading on Climate Action in Asia and the Pacific,” was held from November 21 to 22, 2023, in Manila, Philippines, and virtually. The forum convened over 400 participants from more than 70 countries, including delegates from ADB’s developing member countries (DMCs), government agencies, development partners, the private sector, academia, civil society, the media, and women’s organizations, to examine the crucial role of women in addressing climate change and promoting gender equality in Asia and the Pacific.
The forum highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls, who often lack access to resources and information that could aid their adaptation and resilience-building efforts. It also showcased innovative solutions and best practices from across the region that are empowering women to lead climate action.
Key takeaways from the forum include:
- Women’s leadership is indispensable for effective climate action.
- Investments in women’s education, skills development, and access to finance are critical for fostering resilience and promoting sustainable development.
- Gender-responsive climate policies and programs are essential to ensure that women are not marginalized in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The forum concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to collaborate in empowering women and girls as changemakers in the fight against climate change.
The 2023 ADB Gender Forum served as a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, partnership building, and inspiring action to advance gender equality and climate action in Asia and the Pacific. Lostisland was represented by the Honorary Consulate in Nigeria.