OSCE Women’s Peace Leadership Programme: addressing the gendered impacts of climate change

On April 22, 2025, the OSCE Gender Issues Programme, together with She Changes Climate, launched the third edition of the Women’s Peace Leadership Programme. The initiative supports women in stepping into leadership roles on climate action and peacebuilding across the OSCE region and its Partners for Co-operation.

The online event featured opening remarks from the OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, Dr. Lara Scarpitta; Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Climate and Security, Kerstin Stendahl; Deputy Co-ordinator and Head of Economic Activities in the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, Ralf Ernst; and, She Changes Climate Executive Director, Mamta Borgoyary.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Scarpitta addressed the cohort of participants, “This programme marks a significant step by the OSCE toward incorporating gender perspectives into climate action and mediation efforts. Together, we can develop bold, innovative, and intersectional solutions that address both environmental and social challenges, and places women at the center of effective climate change response.”

Special Representative Stendahl underlined that women are often more affected by climate change and stressed: “Gender-responsive policies which empower women through access to resources and decision-making roles are therefore absolutely essential in enhancing climate security.”

OCEEA Deputy Co-ordinator Ernst highlighted the OSCE’s commitment to incorporating gender across all security dimensions: “When it comes to climate change, applying a gender lens to environmental issues is not only key, but essential.”

She Changes Climate Executive Director Borgoyary reminded participants that the stakes are high: “Women’s leadership is essential not just to respond to crisis but to reimagine our future, to lead with justice, with peace and courage.”

This year’s programme brings together 20 participants who will develop leadership skills for climate negotiations and policy-making. Over the coming months, participants will take part in tailored sessions on mediation and leadership, focusing on the links between climate change and gender equality.

This programme, supported by the WIN project, is part of a flagship initiative to support and promote women’s leadership in decision-making and peacebuilding processes.

You can get to know the participants here.