Social Inequality Heightened as Climate Change Worsens

Climate change is inextricably linked to global inequality patterns. The most vulnerable individuals suffer the brunt of the consequences of climate change while contributing the least to the problem.

Millions of vulnerable people face increased problems as the effects of climate change worsen in terms of severe events, health implications, food security, livelihood security, water security, and cultural identity.

While much progress has been made in terms of the science and the types of policies needed to support a transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient development, many countries are still grappling with how to engage citizens who may not understand climate change and how to gain support from those who are concerned that climate policies will unfairly affect them.

Lawmakers must include average citizens in the decision-making process, which necessitates transparency, access to information, and citizen engagement on climate risk and green growth to build coalitions of support or public demand to reduce climate impacts, overcome behavioral and political inertia to decarbonization, and generate new ideas for and ownership of solutions.

Furthermore, communities contribute to increasing resilience and tackling climate change unique views, skills, and a wealth of information. Rather than being viewed just as recipients, they should be included as collaborators in the resilience-building process.

Community leaders may define goals, influence ownership, and develop and administer investment programs that are responsive to their community's needs, according to research and experience.

Communities and marginalized people may be connected to higher-level policy, technical, and financial support for locally relevant and successful development outcomes through innovations in climate finance architecture.

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