Neoliberalism's Shadow on Environmental Parity

A Call to Action for 2024 Election Year

While International Women's Day on March 8th serves as a powerful global platform to celebrate achievements and advocate for inclusion, the spirit of "Inspire Inclusion" shouldn't be confined to a single day.

As we navigate the monumental year of 2024, a year brimming with global elections, it's crucial to examine the roadblocks hindering progress on gender parity, particularly in environmental leadership. While statistics reveal a gradual increase in women's participation, with 32% holding ministerial positions (UN Women) and 29.7% in parliamentary seats (EIGE), we must acknowledge the lingering influence of neoliberalism and its detrimental impact on achieving true equality.

Neoliberal ideology, characterised by deregulation, privatisation, and market dominance, has often prioritised economic growth over environmental sustainability and social justice. This narrow focus has translated into a political landscape where environmental concerns are relegated to the back burner, and women, who are disproportionately impacted by climate change, are sidelined in decision-making processes.

Consider this stark reality: with over half the world's population – a staggering 3.9 billion people – eligible to vote in 2024, the potential for transformative change is immense. Yet, if neoliberalism continues to dictate the political agenda, environmental issues and the voices of women will likely remain marginalised.

Breaking the Neoliberal Grip

So, how do we dismantle neoliberalism's stranglehold and ensure that the 2024 elections pave the way for a more just and sustainable future? Here are three critical steps:

1. Shifting the Narrative: The current economic model, prioritising profit above people & planet, is demonstrably unsustainable. The urgency for decisive action is undeniable.Harnessing the power of Climate Clock that serves as the global timekeeper in uniting the world to #ActInTime to limit global warming to 1.5°C presents a catalyst to mobilising systemic movement for change. A movement led by amplifying the voices of environmental advocates and women leaders, that is key to dismantling the shortcomings of neoliberalism and demanding leaders champion a just transition, advocating for policies that prioritise both ecological well-being and social equity.Leaders cannot be bystanders but embrace collaboration at the grassroots to accelerate gender parity efforts and impact solutions for a sustainable future.
2. Strategic Collaboration & Advocacy: Concerted efforts are needed to lobby policymakers and political candidates to prioritise environmental issues and champion gender equality in their platforms. This requires collaboration between environmental organisations, women's rights groups, and socially responsible businesses to unite on a shared ideal and common purpose to advocate gender parity for environment.
3. Empowering Voters: Citizen education is paramount; recognising that "Knowledge is power. Power is freedom. Freedom is a right.". Equipping voters with the knowledge and tools to critically evaluate candidates' stances on environmental issues and their commitment to gender parity is essential to ensuring that they cast informed ballots in 2024 and beyond.

A Call to Action

The year 2024 presents a unique opportunity to rewrite the narrative. We must leverage the power of togetherness and collective action to dismantle the barriers erected by neoliberalism. By advocating for environmental sustainability, promoting gender equality and empowering voters, we can usher in an era where women are active participants in shaping a healthier planet for all.

This is not just a call to action; it's a necessity. The future of our environment and the well-being of generations to come depend on it. We must seize this moment and collectively build a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.