For a fair climate, think about gender justice

Natural disasters have become more severe and more frequent, with devastating effects on communities. Over the past month, Kenya has experienced recurring floods that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls in all their diversity.

The impact of natural disasters on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a critical but often overlooked aspect of reproductive justice. Women and girls are among the most vulnerable to disasters, facing increased risks of violence, displacement, gender inequality and socio-economic insecurity.

Reproductive right is a human right but in the face of natural disasters in Kenya, it has been compromised, particularly for women and girls in informal communities, who face increased vulnerability to gender-based violence, including assault and sexual exploitation, in a context of limited resources. . Lack of access to SRH services endangers their physical health and compromises their autonomy and intervention.

Climate justice is linked to gender justice. The impacts of climate change are not gender neutral and addressing the challenges requires a holistic and intersectional approach focused on needs and rights. We must prioritize and implement inclusive solutions that address the root causes of environmental degradation and build resilient communities.

This means involving women and girls in decision-making, ensuring their access to quality health services, and promoting gender equality in all aspects of disaster response and recovery. This will ensure that, even in times of crisis, all people are empowered to make informed decisions about their reproductive lives.

Ms. Kathia, communications specialist, is a human rights defender with NAYA Kenya (email protected).