Please note that this is an on-going project.
Project Description
This research examines the role of decentralization and gender inclusivity in enhancing climate adaptation efforts at the local level in the Maldives. With over 1,200 dispersed islands, decentralized governance is vital for addressing community-specific needs. However, despite the 2010 Decentralization Act’s intent to empower local councils, challenges such as limited capacity, fragmented policies, and central government dependencies persist. These challenges affect the councils’ ability to implement effective climate adaptation strategies.
Additionally, this study explores the potential influence of gender inclusivity on local climate initiatives, focusing on the role of Women’s Development Committees (WDCs). While WDCs are intended to promote women’s participation in governance, they often face funding and institutional barriers. By investigating the intersection of local governance and gender within climate adaptation, this research aims to shed light on how structural factors within decentralization and gender inclusion may impact climate resilience in Maldivian communities.
Project Personnel and Beneficiaries
This project brings together key players in the Maldives’ local governance and climate adaptation landscape. Local council members, Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), and ministries like the Ministry of Environment and Local Government Authority contribute essential perspectives on how decentralized governance operates within the unique context of the Maldives’ dispersed islands. NGOs such as Transparency Maldives and EcoCare Maldives add insights into governance and environmental resilience, while academic collaborators lend expertise in climate adaptation and gender studies.
The project primarily benefits local Maldivian communities, aiming to strengthen their resilience to climate threats. Local councils and WDCs stand to gain practical insights into more effective, inclusive governance, while national policymakers can use findings to refine approaches to decentralization and gender equality. By addressing challenges in localized governance, this research contributes to sustain
Outcomes to Date
As this project began only this year, we are currently in the preliminary research and literature review phase, laying a strong foundation to guide the study. Our early efforts have focused on understanding the existing literature on decentralization, gender inclusivity, and climate adaptation in the context of the Maldives. We plan to begin field research and data collection early next year, which will allow us to gather in-depth insights from local councils, Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), and other stakeholders.
Project Significance
This project directly contributes to several SDGs. It advances Climate Action by exploring ways to improve climate adaptation strategies, supporting the Maldives’ ability to mitigate and respond to climate threats. Gender Equality is addressed through an emphasis on integrating gender perspectives, particularly the role of Women’s Development Committees, in climate governance. Strengthening women’s participation in decision-making enhances community resilience and inclusivity. Additionally Sustainable Cities and Communities benefits from insights on how decentralized governance can enable sustainable local adaptation initiatives. By focusing on these goals, the project aims to provide practical insights that help the Maldives develop more effective, inclusive, and sustainable responses to climate change, fostering long-term resilience for its communities.