Climate crisis threatens health and rights of women and girls

A report by the NGO Plan International indicates that extreme climate events disproportionately threaten the health, rights, and futures of women and girls globally. Based on experiences from over 5,000 women and girls aged 15 to 24 in Bangladesh, Kenya, Peru, Senegal, and Zimbabwe, the study highlights critical risks including interrupted access to healthcare, unplanned pregnancies, violence, and child marriage.

Findings show that 76% of respondents struggled to access reproductive or sexual health services, while 28% noted an increase in violence against women and girls. Additionally, 50% reported difficulties accessing menstrual products or clean water for hygiene. The report emphasizes that maintaining girls' access to education is a vital protection, as continuous schooling significantly reduces the likelihood of child marriage and unintended pregnancies during and after climate emergencies.