A recent study has revealed that women from the world’s least developed countries (LDCs) face significant barriers to participating in global climate negotiations. Conducted by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), the research highlights the gender imbalance in United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) discussions, particularly among delegates from the 45 LDCs.
Since 2008, women have made up only one in three UNFCCC delegates, with just 10% serving as heads of delegation. The study, which included surveys and case studies from Rwanda, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone, found that cultural norms, restrictive laws, and institutional barriers limit women’s roles in climate talks. Limited access to education, training, financial resources, and leadership opportunities further worsens the imbalance.
Around 64% of surveyed delegates reported obstacles preventing women’s active participation, while 66% believed female representation at the highest levels remained inadequate. Nearly half felt their governments were not doing enough to improve gender parity in negotiating teams.
Despite these challenges, some LDCs are taking steps to address the issue. Mozambique is prioritizing women in its selection criteria for negotiators, Rwanda has institutionalized gender equality measures in climate diplomacy, and Sierra Leone has introduced a transparent nomination process.
To foster more inclusive representation, the study recommends targeted funding, gender-focused training, childcare support at negotiations, and clearer selection criteria for delegations. Strengthening institutional policies and capacity-building for women in climate leadership could help close the gap, ensuring women play a greater role in shaping global climate policies.