Minister Shrestha calls for women-focused climate financing in tourism sector

February 20, 2026 - 18:03

Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Shraddha Shrestha, has issued a compelling call to prioritize women within climate financing strategies for the tourism sector. She emphasized that building true climate resilience requires moving beyond traditional investments in physical infrastructure like roads.

Minister Shrestha asserted that financial mechanisms must be deliberately channeled towards empowering women, who are often disproportionately affected by climate impacts. She highlighted the urgent need to direct capital towards women-led tourism enterprises, which can drive sustainable local economies. Furthermore, she advocated for the development of gender-sensitive infrastructure and the support of community-based conservation initiatives led by women.

This approach, she argued, ensures that climate adaptation and mitigation efforts are more equitable, effective, and socially inclusive. By investing in women's economic agency and knowledge, the tourism sector can foster a more resilient model that benefits entire communities. The minister's stance underscores a growing global recognition that climate action cannot be separated from gender equality, positioning women as essential agents of change in safeguarding both the environment and the tourism industry's future.