GENDER DIFFERENCES OF PARTICIPATION IN SOCIAL FORESTRY PROGRAMMES IN BANGLADESH

Abstract

ABSTRACT Conceptual issues of gender participation in development are examined and analyzed with respect to the Social forestry project in Bangladesh (Village and Farm Forestry Project, VFFP) as a means to redistribute access to productive resources and household benefits. A random sample of 120 VFFP participants, both men and women, were interviewed regarding their attitude toward participation, and gender differences in participation. For VFFP participants called “core farmers,” women differ significantly from men in various participation objectives, and attitudes towards incentives for participation in social forestry. However, it has been observed that women were equally capable in forestry activities and project level decision-making as men if they were allowed to participate in the project. Women participating in the VFFP do not believe that they are any more constrained than men by cultural factors. The integration of men and women in social forestry projects can sustain overall social and economic development in rural Bangladesh as it reduces competition and conflicts.