Challenges and Progress in Green Transition for Gender Equality in Kazakhstan
The Kazakh delegation recently took part in the Istanbul Development Dialogue event, held on Oct. 17-18, to advocate for increased investments in gender equality and inclusive climate action. During the event, the delegation shared the challenges Kazakhstan faces in achieving gender equality and the steps it has taken to address them.
Zhuldyz Suleimenova, a Mazhilis deputy in the Kazakh Parliament, spoke at the panel session titled Women’s Leadership for Just Transition and Inclusive Climate Action. She emphasized Kazakhstan’s efforts to diversify its energy mix, reduce carbon emissions, and increase the share of renewables in its energy sources. Suleimenova also highlighted the significant contributions made by Kazakh women in the fields of engineering, technology, management, and research.
One key development in Kazakhstan’s gender equality efforts mentioned by Suleimenova was the passing of a law in April criminalizing domestic violence. She described this law as a fundamental step towards gender equality and emphasized the importance of women’s involvement in decision-making processes and leadership positions.
Ainur Sospanova, the chairperson of the Qazaq Green Association, also emphasized the need for a more prominent role for women in the global energy transition. She discussed the underrepresentation of women in Kazakhstan’s energy sector and the barriers they face in pursuing technical roles and STEM careers.
Sospanova highlighted the Women in Just Transition network’s efforts to conduct research on why girls are not choosing STEM careers and to identify the barriers women face in advancing their careers in renewable energy. The network also aims to celebrate and promote the success of women in energy, including introducing an award for women in renewable energy.
The event also featured speakers from other countries, such as Nasiha Pozder from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Jonna Naumanen from the EU, who discussed the challenges their countries face in addressing climate change and the importance of integrating gender equality into climate response policies.
Overall, the Istanbul Development Dialogue event provided a platform for policymakers, business leaders, and civil society representatives to discuss challenges and innovative solutions for promoting gender equality and inclusive climate action. Through collaboration and prioritizing gender equality, the dialogue aimed to contribute to global efforts to address climate change and social inequality.
