Side event: Securing Women’s Land Rights: A Cornerstone of Climate Change Solutions

Organizers: UN Women, UNEP, OHCHR

Track: Track 3: Land, ocean, food, and water

Date: 15 November 2023

Time: 17:00 – 18:00 (GMT+8)

Venue: Pantai Lido 203, Persada Johor International Convention Centre

Land provides the principal basis for human life and is an integral component of the climate system. However, climate change is adversely impacting land ecosystems and biodiversity, leading to widespread and rapid land degradation threatening rural livelihoods, food production, and water availability.

Climate justice and intergenerational equity have been at the forefront of social justice movements in the region, led by women and indigenous environmental defenders. Despite being the traditional custodians of land, women tend to have less access to resources, protection, decision-making, and leadership, affecting their ability to adapt to climate change impacts. The IPCC’s climate change and land report notes that policies addressing land rights and barriers to women’s participation in sustainable land management, including financial support, can be highly effective in combating climate change. This event will examine the challenges and opportunities to strengthen women’s land rights as a cornerstone in the realization of climate justice in Asia-Pacific.