Gendered Implications of Climate Change: Empowering Women in Climate Law and Policymaking in Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change presents significant challenges to societies worldwide, and
addressing it requires the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives. This study
focuses on the under-representation of women in Nigeria's climate policy and
decision-making processes and its implications for effective climate governance.
Drawing on the recognition of the importance of women's participation in
international climate negotiations, this paper examines Nigeria's legal and
institutional frameworks aimed at promoting gender equality and female
empowerment in climate action. Through analytical legal research, the study
investigates how these frameworks either enable or hinder women's engagement
and representation in climate governance. Findings reveal that excluding
women's voices leads to inadequate gender-responsive and equitable approaches
to climate adaptation and mitigation. The under-representation of women in
Nigerian governance institutions exacerbates the problem, creating barriers to
their involvement in decision-making. To address these challenges, the study
emphasises the need for legal and policy frameworks that facilitate women's
participation and representation and foster supportive environments for their
leadership and agency in climate change contexts. The paper concludes by
recommending strategies such as developing gender-responsive climate policies,
enhancing women's leadership and capacity, and fostering inclusive networks and
partnerships to promote gender equality and climate justice.