Date: 8 March 2024
Organizer: IRENA
Description: Promoting gender equality is crucial in a world grappling with numerous socio-economic and environmental crises. For one, it is a critical measure to counter widening inequality. Second, the intricate connection between gender equality and environmental sustainability runs deep, with women often bearing a disproportionate burden of the impacts from crises such as the ongoing climate emergency. This disparity is exacerbated by the limited access to resources and the lack of adequate investment in women. Nevertheless, women are also at the forefront of solutions, showing resilience and innovation in addressing environmental challenges.
Renewable energy emerges as a promising platform for championing such initiatives. Investing in renewables and empowering women, not only as beneficiaries but also as active agents of change, will help mitigate poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. Advocating for alternative economic models that foster a shift towards a green economy and a caring society that amplifies women's voices becomes essential.
In parallel with UN Women’s designated theme for International Women's Day, 8 March 2024, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, IRENA’s IWD 2024 event aims to collectively amplify the voices and contributions of women, paving the way for accelerated progress in renewable energy and beyond. The stories shared and insights gained during this event will contribute to a growing momentum toward a world where women play a central role in driving positive change.
The event will also serve as the launch of IRENA’s new Gender Survey. Contributing to data gathering is the best way IRENA can support countries and societies toward a just energy transition. It's time to envision a future where gender equality and environmental sustainability are mutually reinforcing, creating a more resilient and prosperous world for all.
