Climate Change, Livelihoods and Gender Dynamics of Mountainous Communities in Pakistan

Abstract

The threat and vulnerabilities related to climate change are high among the communities living in mountainous regions due to Pakistan’s limited livelihood opportunities. Climate change impact is gendered in the real sense. This study is designed to analyze women’s livelihood situation in mountainous regions in the face of climate change with a qualitative methodology. Focus group discussions, participatory observations, and key informant interviews were used in collecting women’s perspectives. Flash floods, temperature rise, erratic rainfall, and land sliding were the main climatic hazards perceived by women. During the risks, the most vulnerable people were women and children. Women’s household activities burden doubled during the disaster days comparing with their male member’s counterparts. Women contribute significantly to adaptation and resilience to climatic extremes. The drivers of their resilience are hard work and diversity of livelihood resources. In changing climate conditions, it is imperative to devise gender-sensitive and region-wise policies and planning.