Empowering Women in Disaster Management and Climate Adaptation: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Pakistan
摘要
Women play a pivotal role in disaster management and climate change adaptation, yet their contributions often remain under recognized. This cross-sectional study from Pakistan explores the extent of women’s participation in disaster response, preparedness, and resilience-building strategies. Using mixed-methods research, data were gathered from diverse geographical regions, including disaster-prone rural and urban communities. The findings highlight the significant role of women in community-based disaster risk reduction (CBDRR), early warning dissemination, emergency response, and post-disaster rehabilitation. Despite their active involvement, structural barriers such as gendered socio-cultural norms, lack of access to resources, and exclusion from policymaking hinder their full participation. The study underscores that integrating women’s local knowledge, leadership, and coping strategies into disaster risk reduction (DRR) frameworks and climate adaptation policies enhances community resilience. Moreover, gender-inclusive policies and capacity-building initiatives are essential to empowering women as agents of change in disaster-prone areas. The chapter concludes with policy recommendations to strengthen women’s leadership in climate resilience, emphasizing the need for inclusive governance, equitable resource distribution, and targeted skill development programs. By mainstreaming gender-sensitive approaches in DRR and climate adaptation, Pakistan can foster a more resilient and adaptive society in the face of escalating climate-related hazards.