In 2020, SHE Changes Climate emerged in response to the glaring absence of women within the UK COP26 high-level team. Our early success in advocating for inclusion, through the collective effort of over 1,000 women and men signing an open letter and widespread global media coverage, led to the addition of three women to the high-level team and the appointment of a female deputy lead negotiator.

Since then, we’ve reached over 154 million people through digital campaigning, increased visibility for our Ambassadors, advised national delegations on representation at COP, sparked awareness within the European Union, and amplified women-led climate solutions through our Summits.

A sobering reality check reveals that the global climate decision-making landscape remains predominantly male-centric and Western-focused. Since COP1 in 1995, only five women have held the position of COP President, underscoring the depth of this imbalance.

Our mission is clear: we champion gender inclusion within climate policy by amplifying the voices of women on the frontlines and bringing their diverse perspectives into the spaces where crucial decisions are made.

As our journey has unfolded, we have become increasingly aware of the stark underrepresentation of women from the Global South, coastal communities, Indigenous groups, and other diverse backgrounds. It is essential that these women have the authority to help shape and implement the future of climate policy and the transformation to a green economy.

As a young campaigning organisation, we have navigated a steep learning curve, gaining insight into both our limitations and our aspirations. Applying an intersectional lens means acknowledging the complex interplay of inequalities—environmental, social, gender, income, and structural racial injustices—which intersect and compound one another.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our partners who have guided, supported, and believed in us. Your willingness to listen, understand, and walk alongside us has been truly invaluable.