UN Climate Change News, 15 October 2019 – In a message to mark the International Day of Rural Women, observed annually on 15 October, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that “listening to rural women and amplifying their voices is central to spreading knowledge about climate change and encouraging governments, businesses and community leaders to act.”

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Rural Women and Girls Building Climate Resistance.”

 “As early adopters of new agricultural techniques, first responders in crises and entrepreneurs of green energy, rural women are a powerful force that can drive global progress,” Mr. Guterres said.

Globally, one in three women works in agriculture, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). It is a sector that gets hit hard when climate-related disasters strike, such as droughts and heat waves.

While women cultivate land, collect food, water and essential fuels, and sustain entire households, the UN chief pointed out that they lack equal access to land, finances, equipment, markets and the power to make decisions.

But with international support, rural women around the world are making a difference and taking concrete climate action. See some inspiring stories below.

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