Given the forecasted consequences of climate change, which are expected to force an estimated 132 million more individuals into extreme poverty by 2030, there is a growing demand for enhanced mechanisms and financial instruments for effective disaster risk management to adapt and build resilience. This need is particularly critical for populations in Latin America and the Caribbean that are highly susceptible to climate-related disasters, and the evidence is increasing on how climate change and disasters affect men and women differently.

Correspondingly, gender norms and power dynamics can affect how resources are distributed in the aftermath of a disaster, and this, in turn, has implications for gender-smart climate and disaster risk finance and insurance (CDRFI). Through a gender-responsive approach, it can be assured that resources are distributed fairly and equitably, in addition to addressing the specific needs of women and other marginalized groups.

At the same time, as the recognition of this discrepancy grows, there exists a rising inclination to address gender-smart CDRFI by local and regional governments. However, translating this interest into concrete actions remains a crucial hurdle for them, as it requires the right tools and resources to determine an appropriate starting point.

In this session, participants from local governments are invited to learn how they can support the other (and often invisible) half of the risk financing market in developing financial products that speak to their needs. The session will cover the importance of sex-aggregated data and effective M&E, gender-sensitive policies and strategies, programs and projects (in particular, the Urban Infrastructure Insurance Facility project), and stakeholder engagement and decision-making with gender-smart CDRFI in mind. As a key learning outcome, local and regional governments can expect to gain practical insights and tools for integrating gender considerations into their risk financing initiatives, fostering inclusive and equitable approaches for effective disaster risk management.

Please note that speakers will speak in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Interpretation will be available in all three languages.

Register