UN Women warns the climate crisis could push up to 141 million more women and girls into extreme poverty
10 November 2026
UN Women released a fact sheet called "Gender Equality in the Age of Climate Crisis" at the COP31 climate conference in Antalya, Türkiye.
It says roughly 1.5 billion women and girls, more than one in three worldwide, live in climate hotspots where hazards meet insecure jobs and deep inequality.
If the worst happens, by mid-century as many as 141 million more women and girls may be driven into extreme poverty by a warming world.
Data from 24 countries suggest a 1°C rise in average temperature could cost women 34 per cent more of their income than men.
About 326 million women and girls still have no electricity.
Women hold just 12 per cent of energy portfolios, and only four per cent of climate-focused Official Development Assistance puts gender equality first.
UN Women's Executive Director, Sima Bahous, asked leaders to give women equal rights, resources and a voice in climate decisions.
In plain words
UN Women United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women — The UN body that works for gender equality and women's rights.
COP31 31st Conference of the Parties — The yearly UN climate conference, held at Antalya, Türkiye.