59. Most WDCs have been inactive over the past five years. Challenges faced by WDCs include lack of independence over their activities and lack of workspace. 124 Members of WDC remained without independent access to a budget.125 However, amendments to the DA included allocation of 5% of council’s budget to WDCs. Generally, members of WDC and communities remained unaware of WDCs mandate.126 60. Rural women are disproportionately affected by environmental and climate change as women are more dependent on the natural resources threatened by these changes.127 There are limited avenues for compensation for loss and damage due to natural disasters and women are either unaware or have not benefited from the available options.128 Unsustainable development practices over the years have threatened economic livelihood of women.129 61. There was a lack of support and business avenues for women engaging in traditional methods of earning such as weaving mats and coir rope.130 Although tourism is the main source of income, women in the sector are limited and involvement of rural women in local tourism was negligent.131 62. There was disparity in access to services for atoll-based communities. 27