Training on Gender and Social Inclusion

League of Queens held a one day training in gender and social inclusion with support from Global green grant fund. The were 30 persons in attendance including media. The highlight of the training is as follows.

Gender is an emotional subject, as well as it is a government subject. Sex is the biological difference between a male and female. It is safe to say that Gender, socially and culturally constructs the roles of male and female in the society. Gender is an analytic tool and gender discriminative practices are culturally accepted.

- [x] Gender determinants

1. Responsibilities.

2. Opportunities.

3. Privileges.

4. Access and control of resources.

Culture has a way to amplify gender exclusive determinants. For men; Financial autonomy, risk takers, protectors, providers, etc. the society feels a man is more informed than a woman.

WHY WOMEN ADVOCATE MORE THAN MEN?

1. Women account for more than 70% of those in poverty, hence, poverty is a gender issue.

2. 2/3 of the illiterate adults are women, 50% are girls not below 5 years.

3. Women produce 43% of food in developing countries and the trade policy is gender biased.

4. 70% of poorest people are women.

5. 1% of the world’s lands are owned by women and girls.

Gender roles are roles male/female are expected to play in the society. Sanitary pads are said to be women practical needs, while the men provide shelter and food.

STRATEGIC GENDER NEEDS/INTERESTS

- Things that can push you forward, things that can help change gender roles and stereotypes.

- Inheritance.

- Political roles.

- Mobility.

- Challenging male dominance/patriarchy.

There’s a psychological construct where men/boys are seen highly different from women/girls. Women are seen as caretakers and men providers.