Women’s Leadership Vital for Climate Resilience in Pakistan: Saleem Shaikh

Islamabad: Media spokesperson and Climate Policy Advocacy expert Muhammad Saleem Shaikh says Pakistan’s climate policy framework emphasizes empowering women as central actors in climate action, sustainable natural resource management, and community resilience.

According to Radio Pakistan, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Shaikh highlighted that as the country faces increasing climate risks ranging from floods and droughts to heat waves and water stress, strengthening women’s participation in climate governance and socio-economic development has become a critical policy priority.

Shaikh emphasized that empowering women is essential for building climate resilience, achieving sustainable development, and strengthening communities across Pakistan. He pointed out that Pakistan’s National Climate Change Policy acknowledges that climate change has differentiated impacts across society and that women, particularly in rural areas, are often more vulnerable because of social, economic, and structural inequalities.

The spokesperson further noted that recent disasters have underscored women’s vulnerability during extreme weather events, as they generally have fewer financial resources, limited access to assets, and restricted mobility during emergencies.