Gender and the Environment

The EMG Issue Management Group (IMG) on Gender and Environment was established in 2025 to strengthen a coherent, gender-responsive and women’s rights-based approach to environmental action across the UN system.

The IMG provides a platform for UN entities to strengthen coordination, share knowledge and promote more consistent integration of gender equality and women’s rights into environmental policies, programmes and multilateral processes.

It's work is developing around three main areas:

1. Strengthening gender-responsive environmental policy

Supports implementation of relevant gender equality and environmental commitments and promotes stronger integration of gender perspectives into environmental policies, programmes and guidance across the UN system.

2. Supporting coordinated UN engagement

Facilitates interagency coordination and helps bring system-wide perspectives into major environmental processes, including the Rio Conventions and other relevant multilateral environmental processes.

3. Building knowledge, dialogue and peer learning

Promotes a better understanding of the links between gender equality, women’s empowerment and environmental action. 

Across its work, the IMG promotes the full, equal and meaningful participation and leadership of women and girls in environmental decision-making, as well as equitable access to information and justice in environmental matters. 

The IMG is chaired by UNWomen and brings together the following EMG member entities: ESCAP, FAO, OCHA, OHCHR, UNFCCC, UNIDO, UNRWA, UN Women, UNEP, UNDRR, UNU, World Bank and WWF (observer).