The proposed budget for FY2026-27 includes a significant allocation for climate action in Bangladesh, showcasing a strong commitment to addressing climate challenges. The budget earmarks around Tk 51,746 crore for climate-related initiatives, a notable increase of over 25 percent compared to the previous fiscal year.
Given Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate change despite its low contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, the focus on adaptation measures is crucial. Approximately 75 percent of the allocated funds are directed towards adaptation efforts such as flood control, climate-resilient agriculture, and water management, highlighting the government’s climate-sensitive approach.
However, the key question remains whether the allocation is not only climate-conscious but also climate-just. Beyond the amount of spending, it is essential to consider who benefits from climate investments, who bears the costs of adaptation, and whose efforts contribute to building resilience.
While the proposed budget reflects a positive step, concerns arise regarding the adequacy of climate financing. The estimated annual cost of climate change to Bangladesh is approximately $3 billion, yet the current public expenditure on climate-related initiatives remains below one percent of GDP. This is significantly lower than the projected long-term adaptation needs outlined in the National Adaptation Plan.
Despite the increased budget allocation, there persists a substantial financing gap for climate adaptation in Bangladesh. The country is projected to require around $230 billion for adaptation by 2050, far surpassing the current yearly climate finance flows of $2-3 billion. Bridging this financial disparity is crucial for effective climate resilience.
Moreover, beyond financial investments in infrastructure and disaster management, the role of women in building climate resilience is often overlooked. Women and girls in Bangladesh contribute significantly through unpaid care work during climate crises, yet their contributions are not adequately recognized or accounted for in climate policies and budgets.
Recognizing the importance of women’s unpaid care work is not just a gender issue but a critical aspect of climate adaptation. Investments in services like safe water systems, healthcare, childcare, and social protection can alleviate the burden of unpaid care work, enhancing overall adaptive capacity and resilience to climate shocks.
Addressing gender disparities exacerbated by climate impacts is essential for effective climate action. Aligning climate budgeting with Bangladesh’s Climate Change Gender Action Plan, promoting women’s leadership in climate governance, and enhancing gender equality integration in climate initiatives are key priorities for ensuring inclusive and effective climate resilience.
Moving forward, it is vital to track climate budget expenditures from a gender-responsive perspective, support women-led organizations in climate-affected communities, and invest in reducing unpaid care burdens to enhance climate resilience. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of women and girls in climate adaptation, Bangladesh can strengthen its climate policies and build a more equitable and sustainable future.