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Social Responses to Climate Change: The Role of Social Movements in Developing Countries
Author(s): Sahil PatelAbstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and escalating environmental challenges have converged to catalyze profound social responses to climate change particularly in developing countries where vulnerability is compounded by economic and political constraints. This paper investigates the multifaceted role of social movements as pivotal actors in addressing climate change mobilizing communities influencing policy debates and advocating for sustainable practices. Drawing on extensive qualitative interviews with grassroots leaders detailed case studies and a comprehensive review of secondary literature the study captures the evolving dynamics of environmental activism in regions facing acute climatic stressors. In this research we explore how social movements integrate indigenous wisdom with modern environmental strategies thereby fostering innovative locally tailored approaches to climate adaptation. These movements not only empower marginalized communities by amplifying their voices in policy arenas but also serve as catalysts for broader institutional change challenging entrenched systems of inequality and environmental neglect. Our findings reveal that while these movements have made significant strides in raising awareness and driving community-based initiatives they continue to navigate substantial obstacles including limited funding political repression and the complexities of translating local successes into national and international policy reforms.