Powering Change: Women, Youth, and the Clean Energy Revolution at the UN CSW 69th Session

As the world races to combat climate change, one of the most powerful solutions lies in unlocking the potential of women and youth. On the sidelines of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) 69th session, a groundbreaking event titled “Powering Change: Women, Youth, and the Clean Energy Revolution” will shed light on how these groups are pivotal in driving the global clean energy transition.

 The event is set to be a powerful platform for showcasing the integral role of these often underrepresented groups in reshaping the energy landscape.

The Importance of Women and Youth in Clean Energy

Women and youth have long been at the forefront of innovative solutions to global challenges, and their contributions to clean energy are no exception. Women bring unique leadership and perspectives to the table, offering fresh solutions and insights that can transform the energy sector. Youth, on the other hand, are often driving the demand for new technologies, sustainable practices, and ambitious policies.

Both groups face significant barriers to participation in the energy sector, but they also possess immense potential to reshape the future of energy systems. Empowering women and youth not only creates more equitable opportunities but also strengthens the overall resilience of energy systems. As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, it is essential that the voices of women and youth are heard, their talents recognized, and their leadership supported.

Photo by Axel Fassio/CIFOR

Why This Event is Essential

The Powering Change event comes at a pivotal moment for the global energy transition. As nations work toward meeting climate goals, women and youth are too often left out of decision-making processes. However, the inclusion of these groups in the energy sector is vital for achieving both social justice and environmental sustainability. By empowering women and youth, we can create a more inclusive and diverse energy workforce that drives lasting change.

Key discussion areas

• Unequal access to clean energy: Across the world, women have less access to modern, clean energy sources, which affects their health, livelihoods, and economic opportunities.
• Exploitation in clean energy business models: Many small-scale women entrepreneurs face unfair pricing structures and limited access to finance, preventing them from thriving in the energy sector.
• The need for gender-responsive policies: Without policies that prioritize gender equity, the shift to clean energy may deepen economic and social inequalities.

Why this matters

The clean energy transition is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s also about economic growth, job creation, and social justice. However, to fully unlock its potential, the transition must be gender-sensitive and inclusive.

Without proper training, financial support, and employment pathways, many women and young people will miss out on opportunities in the sector. This could slow economic development and make it harder for countries to meet global goals like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What you’ll gain from this event

• Insights from leading experts on gender, energy policy, and business models.
• Real-world examples of successful policies and initiatives that support women and youth in clean energy.
• Actionable recommendations for governments, businesses, and development organizations to drive meaningful change.

Speakers

• Ann Kingiri, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Michele Diop, Desjardins International Development (DID)
• Hala Abou-Ali, Economic Research Forum (ERF)

Chair

Bipasha Baruah, Professor & Canada Research Chair in Global Women’s Issues.

How to attend

This is event is in-person only and for anyone who is attending The Commission on the Status for Women 2025 (UNCSW).

Location: CCUN, 10th floor

Time: 4:30 to 6:00 pm EST