Gender and Climate Change: Inclusive Disaster Risk Management in Coastal Bangladesh

Abstract

Climate-induced disasters pose significant threats to vulnerable and marginalized populations in Bangladesh, particularly in disaster-prone coastal regions. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of community level perceptions, lived experiences, and coping strategies related to climate change and recurring disasters in Satkhira district. Through qualitative and quantitative data gathered from intersectional group such as elderly men and women, men and women heads of households, widows and widowers, men and women with disabilities, the research illustrates a deeply rooted understanding of climate and environmental change, despite limited or no access to institutional knowledge and services. Respondents identified multiple manifestations of climate change such as rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, salinity intrusion, cyclones, tidal surges, and thunderstorms, all of which they associated with both environmental and anthropogenic causes such as deforestation, shrimp farming, and unregulated brick kiln activities. There was widespread consensus that human activities significantly contribute to environmental degradation, further intensifying the frequency and severity of disasters. Communities particularly noted salinity intrusion and frequent cyclones as recurring and destructive forces that disrupt health, food security, livelihoods, and water and sanitation systems. The impacts of climate induced disasters were gendered and intersectional. Elderly people, children, persons with disabilities, and women, especially widows faced disproportionately higher risks. Disasters resulted in mental health issues, loss of employment, food insecurity, livestock deaths, and deteriorating access to clean water. Gender-based violence was reported to increase during crises, particularly in shelters, revealing systemic safety and privacy issues. Respondents described unequal food distribution within households during and after disasters, with women and girls often receiving less food compared to men and boys. Despite these challenges, communities demonstrated significant resilience. Disaster preparedness was evident across all groups, but varied in intensity. Coping strategies included storing dry food, saving money, and borrowing from relatives or lenders, though widows often lacked access to these support systems. While men frequently sought wage labour during post-disaster, women engaged in poultry farming, homestead gardening, and limited agricultural labour, but faced barriers in securing viable livelihood options. Water was primarily sourced from ponds or pressure sand filters; however, salinity and distance to portable water remained persistent issues. Effective early warning mechanisms included mosque announcements, community miking, and mobile alerts, though access and awareness remained uneven. While government and NGOs provided essential post-disaster support such as food, water, and shelter, these efforts were not always sufficient or equitably distributed. The study is distinctive from other previous studies as it has combined Intersectionality and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) principles into the Progression of Vulnerability, where disaster risk is reframed not as a natural inevitability but as the outcome of inequality. This integrated framework exposes how identity-based exclusions shape root causes, pressures, unsafe conditions, and capacities, while also highlighting the need for reforms. Integrating Intersectionality and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) into the Progression of Vulnerability reframes and ultimately transforms Disaster Risk Management (DRM) into a xvi pathway for equity, empowerment, and social justice. The study used this inclusive model which links vulnerability to systemic exclusion and drives justice oriented, equitable resilience ensuring that no one is left behind in building resilience to disasters and climate change. Based on the findings, the study proposes a comprehensive set of policy recommendations rooted in community needs and capacities. These include the promotion of climate-resilient livelihoods such as salinity tolerant crops, small-scale animal husbandry, and eco-friendly enterprises targeted especially at women and marginalized households. Strengthening mobile health units, community mental health services, and nutritional programmes for women and children is critical for improving post-disaster recovery. To address gender and social inclusion issues, the establishment of safe spaces in shelters, confidential reporting mechanisms, and the training of local responders is vital. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions should include deep tube wells, rainwater harvesting systems, and the construction of mobile sanitary toilets. The policy framework also recommends enhanced community-based disaster preparedness trainings, localized early warning dissemination, and school-based evacuation drills to improve risk reduction. Long term climate adaptation and ecological restoration efforts such as embankment construction, mangrove reforestation, and regulating brick kiln emissions are essential. Migration management must prioritize displaced families through comprehensive data systems, urban livelihood programmes, and temporary shelters with adequate facilities. Finally, inclusive governance is emphasized through the participation of women and intersectional groups in disaster management committees, community monitoring mechanisms, and partnerships with local NGOs and youth. The study concludes that a multi-sectoral, gender-responsive, and community-led intersectional policy approach is essential to build long term resilience in coastal Bangladesh. Addressing structural inequalities and amplifying marginalized voices, especially women and widows are central to ensuring equitable, just, and sustainable recovery pathways in the face of ongoing climate threats.