Women and Climate Change Adaptation in Bangladesh: Do Women Matter?

Bangladesh is recognized as one of the world’s most climate-affected countries because of its geographical settings and monsoon pattern. In 2007 the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) identified Bangladesh as a highly vulnerable country that will most likely face adverse impacts of climate change in coming decades. The social dimensions of climate change are also exacerbating socioeconomic challenges, particularly in developing countries dependent on natural resources that are vulnerable to climate change. Climate vulnerability in Bangladesh is strongly associated with poverty. As in many parts of the developing world, women not only make up a significant proportion of poor people, but are also responsible for activities such as agriculture, water supply, and food management, all activities that are affected by climate change. Although women’s vulnerability to climate change is a common phenomenon in many countries, evidence suggests that gendered experiences and knowledge offer significant benefits in how they respond to this challenge. In this context, the paper employs both theoretical and qualitative data to challenge the traditional assumptions of women’s place and role in climate change adaptation in countries like Bangladesh.Griffith Business School, School of Government and International RelationsNo Full Tex