On November 29, 2023, the Comparative Research Network organized an engaging online debate exploring the disproportionate impact experienced by women amid the global climate crisis. The event gathered a diverse panel of speakers, each representing distinct spheres intersecting with the climate crisis. Our speakers shed light on the different experiences of women: those with disabilities, those in the Global South, activists from different age groups, artists, and scientists.
Five out of seven amazing speakers connected remotely, while two speakers joined from our office in Berlin, accompanied by two moderators – Maxine Salmon-Cottreau and Dr. Kamila Franz, a live audience and a technical team.
Our speakers: (on top, left to right) Dr Magda(lena) Szarota – Lancaster University, Humanity in Action Poland, Magdalena Klarenbach – Open Plan Foundation, Ramatoulaye Doucouré – Plateforme des Femmes pour la Paix en Casamance, (below, left) Katharina Dietze – Omas for Future, Pegah Moulana – Youth and Environment Europe, (group photo) Anna Geuchen – Deutscher Naturschutzring and Anna Krenz – Dziewuchy Berlin with the moderators: Maxine Salmon-Cottreau and Dr. Kamila Franz and technical team: Léna Richez, Estelle Bruguier and Priscille Gindre.
The event started with moderators providing context, explaining the technicalities and outlining the project’s objectives. Each speaker then offered insights into their work, delineating the challenges women face within their communities amidst the climate crisis. Subsequently, Magdalena Klarenbach gave an overview presentation which delved into the multifaceted impacts of climate change on women, setting the stage for the discussion.
Throughout the debate, speakers shared their personal and professional experiences. Topics ranged from barriers hindering women’s progress in their respective communities to disparities in Western societies, emphasizing the lack of equal representation in various governing bodies and institutions, including scientific domains.
The aim was not just to list problems; participants actively sought strategies to enhance women’s engagement in upcoming European elections, advocated for improved accessibility to understandable information about the European Parliament and very strongly underlined the need and importance of acting together. Crucially, the event highlighted the collective strength of women and fostered connections among climate activists, offering fresh perspectives and avenues for collaboration.
Sketchnote of the event made by Myriam Cottreau
In summary, the event not only catalysed discussions on climate justice but also acted as a platform for networking and future collaborations among passionate activists.
The debate can be seen on YouTube and the accompanying debate continues on the Kialo platform. Soon, the insights on the platform will be shared on social media.The hope is to reach even more people to inspire further action and dialogue.