Campus Political Activities courtesy of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute

Gender is increasingly recognized as a "cross cutting" concept in environmental security. Women in particular are viewed as a critical resource for mitigating (environmental) conflict and building peace. Reflecting the rising interest in "women as peacebuilders", I examine the role of gender in extractive conflict, drawing specifically on ongoing work in the US and Columbia. I argue that the evidence does support a uniquely important role for women in environmental conflict but that this role is generating novel challenges that may enhance women's vulnerability within the context of global environmental change.