In recent years, the growing frequency and intensity of disasters resulting from climate change and natural hazards have highlighted the critical need to enhance the resilience of infrastructure systems. There is an increasing recognition of the importance of integrating gender, equality, and social inclusion into disaster resilience strategies for infrastructure. Women, children, elderly people, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities often face disproportionate impacts during and after disasters due to pre-existing vulnerabilities, social norms, and inadequate infrastructure planning.

It is essential to mainstream gender-sensitive and socially inclusive perspectives into infrastructure design, planning, and implementation if we are to build resilient communities. The session will bring together experts, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss the barriers, opportunities, and strategies for mainstreaming gender, equality, and social inclusion in infrastructure resilience initiatives. By sharing lessons learned, and innovative approaches, the discussion will contribute to a deeper understanding of how inclusive infrastructure can enhance disaster resilience for all, specially the most vulnerable.