Women's participation in national forest programmes: Formulation, execution and revision of national forest programmes

Abstract

This document emphasizes the importance of being gender inclusive to increase the possibility for success with forest development programs. By focusing on men and women's differences and complementarities, this document analyses forest activities from a gender perspective. The issues explored are: 1) Natural resources, rights and laws may differ for men and women for land tenure laws, trees, and crops. 2) Work, where men and women carry different responsibilities. 3) Credit and Technology, these often differ in terms of access for men and women. 4) Education, training and extension, also show discrepancies in access and service provide. 5) Knowledge and conservation of the environment, women and men possess different knowledge about the use and conservation of natural resources. 6) Contribution to food security, some studies indicate that women spend a larger percentage of their income with their families. 7) Legislation, which can be discriminatory for women, often are the reinforcement of norms, traditions, and religious beliefs. 8) Representation and decision-making, inclusion of both men and women is desirable at every stage of the development process. The document then explores ways to consider gender at all stages of national forest programs. It ends with a printable checklist with several questions related to gender and national forest programs.