The Vatican's Controversial Stance on Women's Rights at COP29.
At COP29, the Vatican opposed a resolution that sought to extend global support for women disproportionately affected by climate change. The proposal included financial aid and resources to help women in vulnerable countries, as climate change has displaced 80% of women and girls globally.
Gender and Climate Crisis: A Matter of Inequality.
One of the key points of contention was the inclusion of the term “gender,” with critics fearing it would extend protections to transgender women. The Vatican, alongside other nations, opposed this language, despite its inclusion being a call for recognition of the diverse experiences of women—based on gender, sex, age, and race—when facing climate change.
Sostina Takure, coordinator for ACT Alliance in Zimbabwe, expressed shock at the Vatican’s opposition, which surprised many who had hoped for the Church’s support in recognizing gender-based climate impacts.
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The Global Backlash Against Women's Rights.
Many see this opposition as part of a broader global backlash against women’s and LGBTQ+ rights. The Vatican’s stance on the issue undermines years of progress made at international climate talks to ensure that women’s rights are integrated into climate policy.
A Deepening Divide: Women vs. Climate Change.
The failure to extend the Lima work program—adopted at COP20 in Peru—would mark a significant setback in the global response to gender and climate inequalities. Without the program’s renewal, critical resources and financing may not reach the women most affected by climate change.
The Stakes for Vulnerable Countries.
As the negotiations falter, activists like Illari Aragon of Christian Aid emphasize the urgency of climate finance for developing countries, noting the devastating effects of rising seas, floods, and storms on the world’s most vulnerable populations.
What’s Next?
As COP29 continues, the question remains: Will nations overcome their differences to ensure women’s rights are protected in the global fight against climate change? Or will this crucial opportunity for gender-inclusive climate action be lost?
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“Climate change affects women disproportionately, especially those in vulnerable communities. Their voices are critical in shaping the solutions that will ensure our future survival.”
–Ban Ki-moon, Former UN Secretary-General
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