Women and Climate Change: A Gender-Based Analysis of Rural Climate Resilience

Abstract

This paper presents a gender-based analysis of climate resilience in rural communities, focusing on the often-overlooked role of women in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Drawing on field research from rural regions in Indonesia and complemented by a review of global gender-climate frameworks, the study examines how women’s experiences, responsibilities, and knowledge systems shape their responses to environmental challenges. It argues that while rural women are disproportionately affected by climate-related stresses—such as water scarcity, agricultural decline, and natural disasters—they also possess unique adaptive capacities rooted in local knowledge, caregiving roles, and community networks. Through qualitative interviews, participatory observation, and policy analysis, the research identifies key structural barriers that limit women's access to resources, decision-making processes, and climate adaptation programs. These include gendered land tenure systems, limited financial and technical support, and socio-cultural norms that undervalue women’s labor and leadership. At the same time, the paper documents instances where women have emerged as pivotal actors in grassroots climate initiatives, sustainable agriculture, and disaster risk management. The paper’s primary contribution is its call for the integration of gender justice into climate resilience planning at both national and community levels. It challenges technocratic, gender-neutral adaptation models and highlights the importance of intersectional approaches that consider class, ethnicity, and local context. By centering women's voices and agency, the study advocates for inclusive climate strategies that recognize women not merely as vulnerable populations, but as key agents of transformative change in the face of the climate crisis.