UN Women warned Tuesday that a worst-case climate scenario could push up to 141 million more women and girls into extreme poverty by 2050, as environmental hazards compound existing inequalities.
The United Nations agency issued the estimate in a fact sheet at the COP31 climate conference in Antalya, Türkiye. It also set out findings on drought exposure, violence, child marriage and women’s access to income and energy.
Using data from 14 countries, the agency found that adolescent girls and young women exposed to prolonged extreme drought had 21% higher odds of sexual violence. A separate comparison found higher child marriage rates in arid areas than in humid ones in 24 of 46 countries with relevant data.
The economic effects extend beyond poverty counts. Across 24 countries, a 1°C increase in average temperature could leave women’s total income losses 34% greater than men’s, UN Women said. It cited fewer opportunities to take work outside farming or migrate after failed harvests as a possible reason for the gap.
Disasters can also add to unpaid work, including fetching water and fuel and caring for relatives. About 1.5 billion women and girls live in areas where climate hazards overlap with insecure jobs and gender inequality, an estimate covered in EconoTimes’ earlier report on the agency’s COP31 appeal.
The fact sheet says 326 million women and girls lack electricity, while artificial intelligence is driving up energy demand. Women hold 12% of energy portfolios, and gender equality is a priority in only 4% of climate-focused official development assistance.
UN Women said 73% of countries’ climate plans identify risks to women and girls, but just over one-third address those risks comprehensively.
It urged leaders to protect women environmental rights defenders and expand women’s role in climate decisions.
