ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):France ambassador to Pakistan Nicolas Galey on Wednesday said that more than 350 applications from across Pakistan highlighted the growing role of women in climate action as the Gender and Climate Awards 2026 recognized two women for their contributions to environmental protection and sustainable solutions. Speaking at the fourth edition of 'Gender Climate awards 2026', the ambassador said the initiative continues to expand each year, bringing together …
350 women climate leaders recognized as Gender and Climate Awards 2026 celebrate innovation and community action
ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):France ambassador to Pakistan Nicolas Galey on Wednesday said that more than 350 applications from across Pakistan highlighted the growing role of women in climate action as the Gender and Climate Awards 2026 recognized two women for their contributions to environmental protection and sustainable solutions.
Speaking at the fourth edition of ‘Gender Climate awards 2026’, the ambassador said the initiative continues to expand each year, bringing together government representatives, development partners, civil society organizations and climate advocates to support women leading change in their communities.
Addressing the ceremony, French ambassador said the award has grown significantly since its first edition, which was held on a much smaller scale at the French Residence. The initiative received early support from former climate minister Sherry Rehman and has since developed into a platform that recognizes the contribution of women working on climate-related issues across Pakistan.
The event was attended by officials from United Nations Development Programme, UN Women, the Aga Khan Foundation, the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund and the Civil Society Coalition for Climate Change.
Ambassador Nicolas Galey said, the awards aim to highlight the work of Pakistani women who are addressing climate challenges in their communities despite limited resources and other barriers. The increase in applications this year was described as evidence of the growing engagement of women in environmental protection and climate resilience.
The jury selected two winners for the 2026 edition. Zilai Mariam was recognized for her work in green enterprise and the development of technological solutions for managing plastic and organic waste. Songul Jamal received the award for her efforts to protect coral ecosystems and promote marine conservation.
Speakers noted that gender equality and climate action remain key priorities in France’s international engagement. They pointed to France’s adoption of a feminist diplomacy framework in 2019 and its 2025–2030 strategy, which acknowledges that climate change and natural disasters often have a greater impact on women and girls.
The ceremony also highlighted international efforts to address climate change, including the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the third United Nations Ocean Conference hosted by France in Nice in 2025.
He said the France has committed more than €6 billion annually to climate-related projects in developing countries since 2022. Through the French Development Agency, more than 40 projects worth over €1.5 billion have been supported in Pakistan since 2006, focusing on climate resilience and gender inclusion.
One upcoming initiative in Gilgit-Baltistan will be implemented with support from the European Union and the Aga Khan Foundation to improve access to services and strengthen resilience among local communities, particularly women.
The ceremony concluded with appreciation for all applicants, partners, organizers and jury members. Organizers also thanked climate advocate Aisha Khan and her team for coordinating the event and congratulated the winners of the fourth edition of the Gender and Climate Awards.
