This paper critically reviews gender mainstreaming in South Asia’s water sector, noting its limited impact due to a narrow understanding of gender. Policymakers often equate gender with women – particularly rural women – overlooking power imbalances between men and women and differences among women themselves. Reserving seats for women in decision-making bodies does little to shift power dynamics and often adds to their workloads without any gains in influence. The authors advocate for an intersectional approach that recognizes varying needs, vulnerabilities, and opportunities rather than treating women as a homogeneous group.
Blog » Glass Half Empty or Half Full? Gender in Integrated Water Resource Management in South Asia (2023)
Glass Half Empty or Half Full? Gender in Integrated Water Resource Management in South Asia (2023)
This paper critically reviews gender mainstreaming in South Asia’s water sector, noting its limited impact due to a narrow understanding of gender. Policymakers often equate gender with women – particularly rural women – overlooking power imbalances between men and women and differences among women themselves. Reserving seats for women in decision-making bodies does little to shift power dynamics and often adds to their workloads without any gains in influence. The authors advocate for an intersectional approach that recognizes varying needs, vulnerabilities, and opportunities rather than treating women as a homogeneous group.