Speech for the Mary Robinson Climate Conference
By Yvonne Mefor
06/06/2024.
Good morning, everyone,
I am Yvonne Mefor, representing the Women Aspire Empowerment Initiative (WAEI). This is my first time attending the Mary Robinson Climate Conference and it is a great honour to be able to speak as well especially in this crucial area Climate Justice and its implications for women and marginalized communities, particularly in the context of Irish climate policy.
Introduction: Women Aspire Empowerment Initiative (WAEI)
At WAEI, our mission is to empower women and girls in Nigeria by advocating for their rights and ensuring they have equal access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and decision-making positions. We aim to foster a culture of gender equality where every woman can exercise her agency, contribute to community development, and lead a fulfilling life. Our efforts are aligned with the UN Women Strategic Plan, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
Global and Local Impacts of the Climate Crisis
Climate change is a global crisis with far-reaching impacts. The actions we take in Ireland have significant consequences for countries like Nigeria. Climate justice demands that we acknowledge these interconnected realities. Extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and changing agricultural patterns are affecting communities worldwide, with marginalized groups often bearing the brunt of these impacts. We all are aware that, carbon emissions and industrial activities contribute to global warming, leading to severe weather patterns, rising sea levels, and agricultural disruptions. These changes disproportionately affect developing nations like Nigeria, where communities are less equipped to adapt to these rapid changes.
Implications of Climate Change for Women
Women and marginalized communities face disproportionate impacts from climate change. In Nigeria, women in rural areas are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on agriculture for their livelihoods. Climate change exacerbates food insecurity, water scarcity, and health risks. Urban women, although facing different challenges, are not exempt from these impacts. Coastal communities, for instance, are at higher risk of flooding and displacement, while inland communities struggle with droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns.
Women, especially those in rural areas, face greater challenges compared to men. In many communities, women are primarily responsible for securing water, food, and energy for cooking and heating. With climate change causing droughts and altering agricultural cycles, these tasks become increasingly difficult, adding to their burden. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with women in these regions facing threats from rising sea levels and severe weather events, often with fewer resources and less mobility to evacuate or adapt.
WAEI’s Work on Climate Change and Climate Justice
At WAEI, we integrate gender considerations into our climate justice work. We conduct educational workshops on climate change to raise awareness and build resilience among women. We also engage in active advocacy to ensure that women’s voices are included in climate policy discussions. Our economic empowerment programs focus on sustainable practices that help women adapt to changing environmental conditions. Social protection measures are also a key aspect of our work, providing support to those most affected by climate impacts.
Lessons on Climate Justice
Through our work, we have learned that climate justice is not just about addressing environmental issues but also about ensuring social equity. It requires a holistic approach that considers the unique needs and contributions of women and marginalized groups. Incorporating these insights into our work at WAEI has strengthened our efforts and made our programs more effective.
Supporting WAEI’s Work
Ireland can support WAEI and similar organizations by fostering international collaboration and providing resources for capacity building. Supporting gender-responsive climate policies and initiatives can make a significant difference. Additionally, sharing knowledge and best practices can help empower communities in Nigeria and other affected regions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, achieving climate justice means recognizing and addressing the unequal burdens placed on women and marginalized communities. It requires a commitment to equity, inclusivity, and global solidarity. By working together, we can create a more just and sustainable future for all.
Thank you once again for having me here, and I look forward to continuing this important conversation. I also want to use this opportunity to thank Helen, Lowry Vanessa Conroy, Collette McEntte, Marian for making it possible for me to be here through the COMMUNMITY WORK IN A CHANGING IRELAND. (Feminist Communities for Climate Justice) Maynooth certificate programme. Thank you. To my sister Mrs Ebere Obiesie who believed that women who through empowerment and education can aspire to become stars in their own eyes. “Dare to dream and the sky can never be your limit”. Thank you.