Climate justice

The impacts of climate change across the Commonwealth are increasingly acute, particularly in our smallest and most vulnerable member states. Our focus on climate justice recognises that the worst effects of climate change are disproportionately felt by small and vulnerable states and communities that bear little or no historical responsibility for causing it. The concept of climate justice also carries with it an acknowledgement that appropriate and proportionate responses will accurately reflect existing vulnerabilities, resources, and capabilities.

Our cross-cutting theme of gender equality is woven strongly throughout our work on climate justice. Climate change disproportionately affects women, girls and marginalised communities, compromising the rights of women and girls and slowing the advancement of gender equality. Across the Commonwealth, women face unequal access to social and material resources, land ownership and decision-making power, leaving them vulnerable to external shocks including the impacts of climate change.

The Foundation continues to prioritise climate change in our grant-making, supporting innovative projects that are working to influence policy formation and decision-making, including through creative means. We will continue supporting civil society to engage in key multilateral processes including the 28th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, recognising the vital role that civil society plays in holding governments to account and driving real and lasting change on this critical issue.