Investigating the Gender-Climate Nexus: Strengthening Women’s Roles in Adaptation and Mitigation in the Sidi Bouzid Region
This recently published scientific article, which focuses on gender, water justice and climate change, is the result of strong collaboration within the framework of the VCA programme. More specifically, it is the outcome of a fruitful partnership between the National Institute for Agronomic Research of Tunisia (INRAT) and the National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia (INAT). It reflects our shared commitment, the richness of our interdisciplinary exchange, and the joint efforts to advance understanding and action on these critical issues.
ABSTRACT
Tunisia faces significant challenges related to climate change, which deeply affect its natural and agricultural resources. This reality threatens not only food security but also the economic stability of rural communities and mainly rural women. This research aims to assess the impact of climate change on rural women in the agricultural development group in Sidi Bouzid, focusing on the strategies adopted and the support provided by various stakeholders to mitigate this impact.
To achieve this, we developed a rigorous methodology that includes structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and topological analysis through Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). The results revealed that rural women were categorised into three groups based on their vulnerability to climate change: severely vulnerable, vulnerable, and adaptive. The findings highlighted the significant impact of climate change on water resources, which has increased family tensions and reduced agricultural incomes, making daily life more challenging for rural women. Furthermore, a deeper analysis of interactions with external stakeholders emphasised the important role of civil society, public organisations, and research institutions in strengthening the climate resilience of rural women.
Given these findings, strategic recommendations aim to enhance stakeholder coordination, expand partnerships, and improve access to essential technologies and resources for women in agricultural development groups.
