Ethiopia is embracing the green economy as a pathway to sustainable growth. But are women, girls, and persons with disabilities being left out of this transformation?
A new assessment by SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia on the gender-responsiveness and inclusiveness of green economy policies reveals that while policies mention gender, they often fall short in implementation.
Key findings
- Gender gaps remain: Women and girls are not sufficiently integrated into climate and green economy initiatives.
- Exclusion of underserved groups: Persons with disabilities and marginalized communities rarely benefit from green investments.
- Narrow perceptions: At the local level, “green economy” is often understood only as tree planting, missing its broader potential for livelihoods and resilience.
Why inclusion matters
A truly green economy is not just about protecting the environment; it is about ensuring equitable access to opportunities. Women play critical roles in farming, water management, and household energy use, yet are often excluded from decision-making. Persons with disabilities face even higher barriers to training, employment, and finance.
When policies overlook these groups, we risk building an economy that is green, but not just.
Recommendations for action
- Make gender and inclusion central in climate policy implementation, not an afterthought.
- Invest in women-led livelihoods in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other green sectors.
- Provide training and tools for local leaders to understand and implement inclusive green economy strategies.
How SOS Children’s Villages is contributing
Through its programs, SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia is already supporting youth, especially young women—to access training, start small businesses, and build resilience in green sectors. By aligning with inclusive policy frameworks, these efforts can scale and ensure no one is left behind.
A call for collective action
Climate change affects everyone, but not equally. Building a truly inclusive green economy means listening to the voices of women, young people, and persons with disabilities—and ensuring they are part of the solution.
A green economy that excludes is not sustainable. Inclusion is the key to resilience, justice, and shared prosperity.
Read the full assessment report here: Assessment-of-Gender-responsiveness-Inclusiveness-of-Policies