Marshall Islands Amplifies Voices and Actions: Climate Workshop Drives Gender-Inclusive Strategies

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is committed to integrating gender and human rights considerations into its climate change response. The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Partnership Plan for the Marshall Islands underscores the importance of addressing climate change impacts while prioritizing gender and human rights. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) North Pacific Office has been working in close collaboration with the RMI Government and stakeholders to enhance support in understanding and responding to gender-based violence linked to climate change impacts, particularly in the isolated outer island communities.

A workshop was recently conducted by the Nationally Determined Contribution Partnership (NDC P) Working Group members, including representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs, Women United Together in the Marshall Islands, Jo-jikum, and the NDC Deep Dive project team. This workshop, held from 14 - 16 June 2023, on Mili and Nallo islands, exemplified teamwork and a genuine partnership in supporting these communities.

The workshop served as a platform for information sharing and understanding gender and climate impact issues. It also emphasized the importance of including the voices of the communities throughout the climate work progressing through the Government's Tile Til Eo climate coordination structure.

The Tile Til Eo Coordination structure, established in 2019, comprises three main working groups focused on Adaptation, Mitigation, and NDC Partnership. These working groups collaborate to share updated climate information, mobilize funding for relevant projects, and report to the Chief Secretary and Minister of Environment.

"The partnership and collaboration with all working group members of the NDC P WG are crucial in delivering support and ensuring the achievement of impact-oriented targets during these workshops for the communities," said Rubida Alik, Chief of Community Division at the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs.

Preserving Marshallese culture and traditions amid climate change uncertainty emerged as a vital discussion highlighted by the communities of Mili and Nallo islands. The workshop also explored the role of women in traditional settings and the importance of understanding gender equality components. These discussions aimed to foster further dialogue within these communities.

"I wish to reiterate that UNDP is committed to providing ongoing support for gender and human rights efforts, supporting the Republic of the Marshall Islands in meeting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). More importantly, we aim to ensure that all voices are heard concerning gender-based violence and climate issues, particularly in light of the increasing stress faced by RMI communities due to climate impacts," emphasized Mr. Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for FSM.

In addition to the discussions, the communities received a presentation on the National Adaptation Plan, where concerns such as the need for increased water tanks and strengthened support for sustainable crop cultivation were raised. The workshop also facilitated information sharing, confirming the existence of several donor-funded projects supporting these priorities. 

The UNDP NDC Deep Dive Project in the Marshall Islands is funded by the European Commission through the governments of Germany and Spain. The project's objective is to expedite the implementation of priority actions toward meeting the Republic of the Marshall Islands' NDCs. It targets the strengthening of existing systems, coordination, and collaboration among various stakeholders on climate change issues. Furthermore, the project supports sectoral transformation initiatives that contribute to NDC implementation.

At the heart of RMI’s ambitious endeavor lies Article 6 of the Paris Declaration, a pivotal framework that enables international cooperation in addressing climate change and supporting sustainable development initiatives.  

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About the Paris Agreement: The Paris Agreement is an international treaty under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It aims to combat climate change and accelerate efforts to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. The agreement establishes a framework for countries to set their own emissions reduction targets, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and provides a platform for global cooperation on climate action.