We need a gender just transition for health systems and climate action

Abstract

Meaningful progress to mitigate the climate crisis and improve health systems will only be possible with a commitment to equity, justice, and inclusion, say Arthur Ng’etich and colleagues As the 29th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP29) unfolds, it highlights yet another year where action to tackle the intensifying climate crisis falls short. Some international steps have been undertaken to reduce carbon emissions,1 transition to renewable energy sources, and enhance adaptation measures,2 but structural drivers of climate change and related inequities remain largely unchallenged, with severe consequences for public health. We must look beyond climate mitigation and adaptation towards long term transformation of economic and health systems.3 It is critical to act beyond energy transitions by tackling the structural drivers of inequities—especially along intersecting axes of discrimination, including economic, sex, age, race, ethnicity, migratory status, disability, and geography. This transition requires focusing on the root causes of inequalities, such as patriarchy, neocolonial extractive industries, and neoliberal economic policies, while prioritising gender equality and women’s empowerment. Efforts to reshape social and economic systems while building resilience are gaining momentum …