Breaking the Mold: Have gendered dynamics been overlooked in South Asian Adaptation Challenges?

Abstract

This commentary delves into the complex relationship between gender dynamics and climate change in South Asia, underscoring the pressing need to tackle gender biases in adaption. It looks at how sociocultural issues such as gender vulnerabilities interact to impede successful adaptation attempts and asks whether gender dynamics have been neglected in addressing adaptation challenges in South Asia. It emphasises how social norms, restricted access to resources, and decision-making platforms worsen the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and other intersectional groups. It highlights how crucial it is to incorporate gender-transformative methods into the policies and the distribution of resources to foster inclusivity and resilience. South Asia has the potential to promote fair and sustainable adaptation solutions by questioning conventional gender norms and empowering neglected communities. The commentary accentuates the necessity for transformative action to guarantee gender-inclusive climate adaptation initiatives in the region.