Vanuatu is an island nation in the Melanesian region of Oceania, consisting of more than 80 islands. Like many Pacific island states, Vanuatu faces significant climate change impacts, including rising temperatures, sea level rise, and increased storm surges. According to the Department of Climate Change of the Government of Vanuatu, temperatures are projected to increase by up to 1°C by 2030. Extreme rainfall events are expected to become more frequent and intense, increasing the damage caused by cyclones, storm surges, landslides, flooding, and droughts. Although tropical cyclones may become less frequent, they are projected to increase in intensity (Department of Climate Change, Government of Vanuatu). 

Between 1993 and 2022, the Climate Risk Index ranked Vanuatu as the ninth most affected country by climate change. Existing social and economic vulnerabilities intersect with climate risks, with women often facing heightened exposure during and after disasters. For example, Tropical Cyclone Harold in 2020 led to widespread job losses among women working in the tourism and agricultural sectors in countries such as Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, and Fiji (UNESCAP Pathways to Adaptation and Resilience in Pacific SIDS).  Vanuatu’s high ranking in the Climate Risk Index reflects the significant economic losses, number of people affected, and fatalities associated with climate-related disasters. (Climate Risk Index)  As an island nation frequently exposed to cyclones, Vanuatu continues to face increasing risks from extreme weather events that are expected to intensify under climate change.