Impact of COVID-19 on Women in the Blue Economy

Gender inequality is known to make women suffer disproportionately from the adverse effects of climate change; with social, economic and political barriers increasing women’s exposure and susceptibility to the negative impacts of climate change. Consequently, a gender-responsive approach to both climate change resilience and economic resilience within the blue economy is crucial to address the increased levels of vulnerability experienced by women and to empower women in the face of climate change. This brief provides an overview of key facts related to this issue including the related impacts of COVID-19 on the sector as well as recommendations on integrating gender into solutions that ensure women engaged in the blue economy are considered in climate-relevant policies and programs.