The gendered nature of climate change and the quest for justice. Rights-based climate litigation as a pathway to climate and gender justice

Abstract

The impacts of climate change are felt by everyone around the world, yet the effects are not experienced equally. Women and girls are more vulnerable due to deeply entrenched social norms and gender roles. However, women and girls are not a homogenous group in a changing climate. their experiences are diverse, shaped by intersecting inequalities and oppression. This thesis aims to shed some light on the intricate connections between climate change, gender, and human rights, by specifically exploring how a rights-based approach to climate litigation can contribute to achieving climate and gender justice. The first chapters lay the groundwork by analyzing the gendered impact of climate change. The subsequent chapter focuses on the importance of integrating human rights principles into climate action to achieve climate and gender justice. It then discusses the potential of rights-based climate litigation in this context. Further, it argues that the recognition of ecocide as an international crime can enhance climate justice and gender justice efforts. Ultimately, the thesis concludes that while rights-based climate litigation is crucial, achieving true climate and gender justice requires a holistic re-evaluation of power dynamics and structural inequalities, advocating for a shift from an anthropocentric to an ecocentric perspective.