Women in Pakistan: Climate Change Challenges & Solutions

Climate change is one of the most critical challenges of the 21st century, affecting ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide. However, its impacts are not uniform, and marginalized groups, particularly women in developing nations like Pakistan, are disproportionately affected. Women’s livelihoods in Pakistan are heavily dependent on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, livestock, and forestry. With changing weather patterns, erratic rainfall, and increasing temperatures, these traditional livelihoods are under severe threat. Additionally, socio-cultural norms, restricted access to education, and limited technological resources further exacerbate their vulnerability.

Women in rural Pakistan play a crucial role in household food production, water collection, and caregiving, making them frontline responders to climate-induced crises. Droughts, floods, and extreme weather events not only disrupt agricultural activities but also increase the burden of unpaid domestic labor on women. In many cases, water scarcity forces them to travel longer distances to fetch water, exposing them to health risks and reducing their time for education or income-generating activities. Climate change also intensifies food insecurity, disproportionately impacting women and children who often eat last or less in times of scarcity.

Despite these challenges, women are not merely passive victims of climate change. They have the potential to be powerful agents of change in building climate resilience and fostering sustainable development. By enhancing women’s access to education, financial resources, and climate-smart agricultural practices, Pakistan can empower them to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Strengthening women’s participation in decision-making processes and local governance is also crucial for integrating gender-sensitive climate policies.

This report delves into the intersection of climate change, women’s livelihoods, and empowerment in Pakistan, examining both the challenges and opportunities for fostering gender-inclusive climate resilience. Addressing these issues is not just about mitigating climate change but also about promoting social justice and sustainable development.

Women play a crucial role in Pakistan’s agricultural sector, comprising approximately 70% of the rural farm labor force. However, climate change is drastically altering traditional farming practices, making it increasingly difficult for women to sustain their livelihoods and ensure food security for their families. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and more frequent pest infestations are significantly reducing agricultural productivity. Women, who often lack ownership of land and access to essential farming resources, are disproportionately affected by these changes.

Despite their substantial contributions to agriculture, only 3% of women in Pakistan own agricultural land, limiting their ability to implement adaptive strategies such as crop diversification, improved irrigation techniques, and climate-resilient farming methods. Additionally, women’s restricted access to credit and financial services prevents them from investing in modern agricultural tools and technologies that could mitigate climate-related risks. As soil degradation and water scarcity intensify, women are forced to work longer hours in the fields while also managing household responsibilities, increasing their physical and economic burdens.

The decline in crop yields and rising livestock mortality directly threaten household food security, with women and children being the most vulnerable to malnutrition. Pakistan ranks 99th out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2023, underscoring the severity of food insecurity. In many rural communities, cultural norms dictate that women and children eat last, further exacerbating their nutritional deficiencies in times of crisis.

Water Scarcity

In the arid regions of Sindh and Balochistan, water scarcity profoundly affects women's daily lives, compelling them to spend significant time and effort in water collection. While specific data for these provinces is limited, globally, women and girls spend an estimated 200 million hours daily collecting water, underscoring the magnitude of this issue.

The scarcity of clean water in these provinces leads many to rely on unsafe sources, increasing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. In Sindh and Balochistan, reports indicate tens of thousands suffering from diarrhea, gastroenteritis, malaria, dengue fever, and other skin and eye diseases, particularly following flooding events that exacerbate the contamination of water supplies.

The burden of water collection and the health risks associated with contaminated water disproportionately affect women and children, limiting their opportunities for education and economic activities. Addressing water scarcity and ensuring access to clean water in Sindh and Balochistan are crucial steps toward improving public health and empowering women in these regions.

Health and Well-being

Climate change significantly impacts women's health and well-being in Pakistan, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and creating new health challenges. Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns have expanded the habitats of disease-carrying vectors, leading to increased cases of malaria and dengue fever. In 2022, Pakistan faced its worst dengue outbreak, with over 32,000 reported cases. Women, especially those involved in agricultural work, are at heightened risk due to increased exposure to mosquitoes. Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to climate-related health risks. Malnutrition, resulting from food insecurity due to crop failures, directly affects maternal and fetal health. According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18, 40% of pregnant women in Pakistan are anemic, a condition exacerbated by inadequate nutrition. Extreme weather events, such as floods, disrupt healthcare services, making it difficult for pregnant women to access necessary prenatal and postnatal care. The 2022 floods left approximately 650,000 pregnant women without adequate healthcare, forcing many to give birth in unsafe conditions.

The stress associated with climate-induced disasters, resource scarcity, and displacement can lead to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Women, often primary caregivers, face increased burdens during such crises, impacting their mental well-being. The loss of livelihoods and homes, as seen in the 2022 floods affecting 33 million Pakistanis, disproportionately impacts women, leading to long-term psychological distress. Climate change contributes to deteriorating air quality, with severe health consequences. In Punjab province, toxic smog has endangered approximately 11 million children, leading to respiratory issues. Women, especially those cooking with solid fuels, are at increased risk of respiratory diseases due to indoor air pollution.

Flooding and changes in water availability increase the prevalence of waterborne diseases. Contaminated water sources heighten the risk of infections such as diarrhea and cholera. Women and children, often responsible for water collection, are more exposed to these health risks. The 2022 floods damaged water systems, forcing over 5.4 million people to rely on unsafe water sources. Climate-induced economic hardships have led to an increase in forced marriages, particularly in Sindh province. Families affected by floods resort to marrying off young daughters to alleviate financial burdens, compromising their reproductive health and educational opportunities. In 2024, one village reported 45 underage marriages, highlighting the severity of the issue.

Displacement and Migration

Climate change is a major driver of displacement and migration in Pakistan, disproportionately affecting women who face heightened risks and vulnerabilities. Climate-induced disasters, particularly floods, droughts, and extreme heatwaves, have forced millions to leave their homes in search of safer living conditions and economic opportunities. The 2022 floods alone displaced over 8 million people, with women and children making up the majority of those affected. Displaced women are at a higher risk of gender-based violence, exploitation, and human trafficking, as they often find themselves in overcrowded shelters or temporary housing with little protection. Reports from flood-affected regions indicate an increase in cases of domestic abuse and sexual violence due to the breakdown of social structures and economic hardships.

Migration also disrupts women’s access to traditional livelihoods, pushing many into informal and precarious work. Women who once relied on agriculture or home-based industries struggle to find stable employment in urban areas, often resorting to low-paying domestic labor or street vending. Without access to financial resources, land ownership, or formal employment opportunities, displaced women face significant economic insecurity.

Displacement weakens social networks and community support systems, isolating women in unfamiliar and often hostile environments. Many struggle to access healthcare, education, and essential services in displacement camps or urban slums. The loss of social cohesion also impacts mental health, increasing stress, anxiety, and depression among displaced women. Addressing these challenges requires targeted policies that prioritize women’s safety, economic empowerment, and access to essential services in the face of climate-induced migration.

Barriers to Women’s Empowerment in the Context of Climate Change

Women in Pakistan face numerous barriers to empowerment in the context of climate change, limiting their ability to adapt and contribute effectively to climate action. Despite being disproportionately affected by environmental challenges, they are often excluded from decision-making processes at both community and national levels. Traditional gender roles place restrictions on women’s participation in public life, keeping them from accessing education, technology, and resources that could enhance their resilience. The gender gap in education remains significant, with only 49% of women in Pakistan being literate compared to 71% of men. This lack of education reduces their ability to understand climate risks, access early warning systems, and implement adaptation strategies. Furthermore, systemic discrimination in land ownership, financial services, and employment opportunities exacerbates these challenges. Only 5% of women in Pakistan have access to formal financial services, restricting their ability to invest in climate-resilient livelihoods or recover from climate-induced losses.

Women in rural Pakistan are particularly disadvantaged due to limited access to education and technology. Many girls drop out of school to assist with household chores, further reducing their opportunities for future employment and empowerment. According to UNICEF, 32% of girls in Pakistan are out of school, preventing them from gaining the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to climate change. Additionally, women often lack access to digital tools and information that could help them implement climate-smart agricultural practices or access financial resources. This technological gap hinders their ability to adopt innovative solutions and build resilience against climate shocks.

While climate change presents significant challenges, it also offers opportunities for women's empowerment and community resilience. One essential strategy is the implementation of gender-responsive climate policies that ensure women’s participation in policy formulation and decision-making processes. Programs should be designed to address the specific needs of women, such as providing access to land, credit, and climate-smart technology. Education and capacity-building initiatives are also crucial in equipping women with knowledge on sustainable agriculture, water management, and renewable energy. Expanding access to digital tools and training programs can help women better prepare for climate risks and take advantage of new opportunities.

Economic empowerment plays a critical role in helping women adapt to climate change. Supporting women-led businesses and cooperatives that focus on climate-resilient livelihoods can increase financial stability and reduce vulnerability. Encouraging women's participation in renewable energy, eco-tourism, and other sustainable sectors can create job opportunities while promoting environmental conservation. Additionally, community-based approaches such as strengthening women’s self-help groups and cooperatives can enhance collective bargaining power, improving their ability to advocate for climate adaptation resources. Promoting the adoption of labor-saving technologies, such as solar-powered water pumps and energy-efficient stoves, can also alleviate the physical burden on women and improve household efficiency.

Women in Pakistan are already leading climate action through various grassroots initiatives. In Sindh, women's self-help groups have successfully implemented organic farming and water harvesting techniques, strengthening livelihoods and increasing resilience. In Punjab, women are actively involved in community-based disaster risk reduction programs, including early warning systems and emergency preparedness. Organizations such as the Aga Khan Rural Support Program (AKRSP) have empowered women entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector, enabling them to generate income while promoting clean energy solutions. By addressing structural barriers and investing in gender-responsive climate policies, Pakistan can harness the full potential of women as agents of change in climate resilience and sustainable development.

Way Forward

To build climate resilience and promote gender-inclusive development in Pakistan, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Addressing the intersection of climate change, women’s livelihoods, and empowerment requires targeted interventions across policy, education, economic opportunities, community engagement, and technological advancements.

A key step is the integration of gender-responsive policies in national and regional climate action plans. Women must be actively involved in decision-making processes at all levels, ensuring their perspectives and needs are reflected in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. Special attention should be given to providing women with land rights, financial support, and access to climate-smart agricultural technologies. Expanding credit facilities and microfinance programs for women farmers can help them invest in sustainable farming methods and alternative livelihoods.

Education and capacity building are essential in equipping women with the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to climate change. Programs should focus on climate-resilient agricultural practices, water conservation techniques, and sustainable energy solutions. Digital literacy programs can also empower women by enhancing their access to climate information and early warning systems.

Economic empowerment initiatives should prioritize the creation of climate-resilient job opportunities for women. This includes supporting women-led businesses in renewable energy, eco-tourism, and sustainable agriculture. Strengthening cooperatives and self-help groups can enhance women's collective bargaining power and improve access to markets and resources. Additionally, promoting women’s involvement in green energy projects, such as solar energy enterprises, can provide sustainable livelihoods while contributing to climate mitigation.

Community-based approaches must be strengthened to enhance women’s resilience to climate shocks. Establishing local women’s networks focused on disaster preparedness and response can improve early warning dissemination and recovery efforts. Encouraging women’s leadership in local governance structures and climate adaptation committees can drive meaningful change at the grassroots level. Social protection programs, including climate insurance schemes, can help safeguard women against climate-induced financial losses.

Technology and innovation play a crucial role in reducing women’s labor burdens and enhancing productivity. Investments in labor-saving technologies, such as solar-powered water pumps and energy-efficient stoves, can significantly improve women’s well-being and economic opportunities. The use of gender-disaggregated data in climate policy planning can ensure that interventions are tailored to the specific challenges women face.

Improving healthcare access is vital in mitigating the health impacts of climate change on women. Mobile health clinics and telemedicine services can bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, particularly for displaced women and those in remote areas. Awareness campaigns on climate-induced health risks, including vector-borne diseases and malnutrition, should be integrated into public health programs.

Addressing water scarcity in regions like Sindh and Balochistan requires investment in water conservation projects, such as rainwater harvesting and solar-powered desalination plants. Expanding access to clean drinking water can alleviate the time and health burdens associated with water collection, allowing women to engage in education and economic activities.

By prioritizing gender-responsive policies, expanding education and economic opportunities, strengthening community networks, and leveraging technology, Pakistan can build climate resilience while empowering women as agents of change. Investing in women’s empowerment is not just a climate adaptation strategy—it is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive development.

Conclusion

Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a social and economic challenge that disproportionately affects women in Pakistan, particularly those in rural areas. As primary caregivers and contributors to agriculture, water collection, and household management, women bear the brunt of climate-induced disruptions, including food insecurity, water scarcity, and health risks. However, they are also key agents of change in building climate resilience and fostering sustainable development.

To mitigate these challenges, Pakistan must adopt gender-responsive climate policies that enhance women’s access to education, financial resources, and climate-smart agricultural technologies. Ensuring women’s participation in decision-making processes at local and national levels is crucial for integrating gender-sensitive climate adaptation strategies. Investments in clean water infrastructure, healthcare, and labor-saving technologies can significantly reduce the burdens on women while improving overall community resilience.

Empowering women in the face of climate change is not just about equity—it is a strategic necessity for sustainable development. By recognizing and harnessing their potential, Pakistan can create a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. Addressing climate change through a gender-inclusive approach will not only protect vulnerable communities but also drive long-term economic and environmental stability for the nation.

Please note that the views expressed in this article are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of any organization.

Tehmeena Solangi is affiliated with the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, Sindh Agricultrue University, Tando Jam, Sindh, Pakistan.

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