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COP 28: climate change agenda and effect on maternal health

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By Lovina Manyara

The vital area of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is underemphasised despite being in urgent need of attention in light of changing climatic trends. Beyond just harming the environment, climate change exacerbates gender inequities, especially for girls and women. This article delves into the intricate relationship between SRHR and climate change, highlighting the challenges to well-being that come from the disparate effects on different gender groups.

Research underscores the disconcerting reality that girls and women bear the brunt of climate-induced disasters. These events, such as hurricanes and floods, render them significantly more vulnerable to harm and even death compared to men. However, this narrative is nuanced by societal factors that can reverse the trend, such as the encouragement of risk-taking behavior among men.

The aftermath of surviving climate-related disasters isn’t the end of the story for women. Those who endure these crises often face a multitude of difficulties, including shorter life expectancies, mental health struggles, increased exposure to gender-based violence, exploitation risks, and exacerbated childbirth complications. The consequences of climate change have far-reaching impacts on women’s physical and mental well-being, reinforcing the necessity of comprehensive support structures.

Climate changes influence extends to various aspects of SRHR, affecting some components more acutely. Notably, there is a discernible link between climate change and negative maternal health outcomes, a rise in gender-based violence incidents, and limited access to SRHR services. This deficit in services encompasses fundamental aspects such as family planning, safe abortion access, and support for managing sexually transmitted infections.

The intersections between climate change and SRHR underscore the importance of weaving reproductive health considerations into strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation.In conclusion, the intertwining of climate change and SRHR emphasizes the urgency of addressing this nexus. It underscores the need to safeguard reproductive health and rights in the face of an evolving climate. Effective climate change strategies must adopt a gender-sensitive perspective, prioritizing the rights and well-being of all individuals, particularly girls and women, as we navigate an uncertain climate future. By acknowledging and acting upon these connections, we embark on a journey toward securing equitable and resilient global progress, where SRHR remains a key component of our efforts to combat climate change’s far-reaching impacts.

Lovina Manyara is a lawyer and SRHR Advocate at NAYA.