Securing Women’s Land Rights for a More Livable Planet

The session examined the intersection between women’s land rights and climate change, focusing on how secure land tenure for women contributes to a more sustainable and resilient planet. A framing presentation provided by Ruth Meinzen-Dick from IFPRI set the stage by highlighting the latest research on the impacts of climate change on women’s land rights, outlining both the challenges faced and the potential opportunities. The discussion emphasized that climate change disproportionately affects women, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities, as they often lack secure land tenure, limiting their ability to respond effectively to environmental threats. A panel of practitioners from diverse regions, including Colombia, Senegal, Tanzania, and the Philippines, shared their experiences and insights. They illustrated how women’s land rights play a pivotal role in local strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation, underlining the need for inclusive policies that recognize women as key agents of change in sustainable land management. Panelists discussed the benefits of secure land tenure for women, noting that when women have guaranteed land rights, they are more likely to invest in conservation practices, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem restoration—actions that are crucial for combating climate change. The dialogue highlighted that strengthening women’s land rights is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic approach to achieving broader climate goals. Secure tenure allows women to participate more fully in decision-making processes and contributes to the resilience of communities facing climate impacts. The session concluded with a call for integrated policy frameworks that support gender equity in land tenure and climate action, emphasizing that a more inclusive approach is essential for creating a sustainable and livable planet for future generations.


This resource has been made available by the organizers of the World Bank Land Conference under the following disclaimer.