We recognize and celebrate the contributions of all women and girls and the power and strength in their diversity - from those belonging to discriminated ethnic or religious groups; to those who are part of indigenous communities; from those living in poverty to migrants and people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identities; from those who are of African descent to those with disabilities. Around the world, these activists are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation and response, to build a more sustainable future for all.

These women and girl human rights defenders, with courage and resilience, are leading inclusive and feminist efforts for environmental, climate and social justice movements, to the benefit of all our societies.

Feeling the brunt of extreme weather, disappearing water resources and soil degradation, young women and girls across the world are on the front lines - as managers of resources and advocates of sustainable lifestyles – and as staunch human rights defenders of land, water, nature, and communities. Our planetary crisis is a human rights crisis that demands a feminist response – with women and girl activists at the heart.

Yet, women and girl activists and the organisations they lead continue to be excluded from decision-making spaces and from being taking seriously, heard, recognised, funded, engaged, empowered, protected and genuinely supported. They continue to face intimidation, violence, and attacks – online and in real-life – often targeted at their families and their reputation, their gender, their sexuality, their race, their ethnicity, their religion, and their disability.

It is high time that we dismantle the obstacles they face and recognise, support, fund, listen to and heed their demands to take concrete action, for all people and our planet.