Gender Analysis of Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance in the Pacific: Case Study of Fiji, The Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Tonga

Climate change and disasters in Pacific Island Countries (PICs) affect women and vulnerable groups disproportionately due to existing inequalities, limited economic opportunities, and social barriers. This gender analysis, commissioned by the Centre of Excellence on Gender-smart Solutions under the Global Shield and conducted by Oxford Policy Management, examines how gender and social inclusion can be more effectively integrated into Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI). It identifies successful examples of gender mainstreaming and outlines practical recommendations to strengthen gender-responsive CDRFI systems.

Focusing on Fiji, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and Tonga, the study reviews national policies, current initiatives, and remaining gaps in gender-inclusive CDRFI approaches. It highlights gender-specific vulnerabilities, the importance of financial instruments tailored to diverse social groups, and opportunities to enhance inclusion across CDRFI design and implementation. The findings directly inform key documents of the Global Shield in-country processes in the region, including the gap analysis and the Pacific region’s Request for CDRFI Support to the Global Shield. For more information on the Global Shield in-country process, visit www.globalshield.org.

As sex-disaggregated and intersectional data remain limited, the analysis draws on desk research of relevant policies and strategies, supported by interviews with key stakeholders across the region. While centred on women, it also considers the needs of other groups, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Overall, the study shows that although foundational progress toward gender-responsive CDRFI is underway, efforts remain uneven and require stronger institutional commitment, improved data systems, and deeper community engagement. Embedding gender and social inclusion at every stage of CDRFI development will enhance financial protection and strengthen social resilience across the Pacific. By prioritising inclusivity, collaboration, and long-term capacity-building, Fiji, RMI, and Tonga can advance toward CDRFI systems that empower women and marginalised communities as active agents of resilience and recovery.