Gender Considerations Research Articles

Advancing gender equality through strategic project management: A framework for integrating gender-responsive policies in development projects

This review presents a strategic framework for integrating gender-responsive policies into project management to advance gender equality within development projects. Gender equality is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of sustainable development, yet significant gaps remain in effectively embedding gender considerations in project planning and execution. Through a review of successful case studies and current project management practices, this review explores how structured, gender-responsive strategies can enhance the impact of development projects across diverse sectors. The proposed framework emphasizes a systematic approach to incorporating gender perspectives from the project design phase through implementation and evaluation. Key components include conducting initial gender impact assessments, establishing gender-specific goals and indicators, and ensuring adequate budget allocations for gender-focused activities. Additionally, the framework underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and the collection of gender-disaggregated data to inform adaptive management. Challenges such as institutional constraints, cultural resistance, and limited gender-specific expertise among project teams are addressed with recommendations for building capacity and securing policy support. Best practices highlighted include fostering partnerships with local women’s organizations, engaging community leaders, and providing gender sensitivity training for project staff. This review concludes that integrating gender-responsive policies in project management not only advances gender equality but also contributes to more inclusive and effective development outcomes. The framework offers a replicable model for project managers and policymakers, advocating for a shift towards projects that prioritize equitable participation and benefits for all genders. By implementing these practices, development initiatives can create sustainable socio-economic improvements and foster gender-inclusive environments.

Complementary interventions for cognitive rehabilitation in patients with cerebral palsy: a single-center study

Abstract Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neuromotor disorder that impairs a person’s ability to balance, stand, maintain posture, and walk. Research has indicated that Al Fatiha and negative air ion (NAI) are beneficial for ameliorating several behavioral, spiritual, physical, and societal issues. The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of Al Fatiha and NAI interventions on cognitive skills using Lumosity software. Methods This randomized control trial was conducted et al.-Umeed Rehabilitation Association, Karachi, Pakistan, between February and April 2021, following ethical approval (Ref: IBC-2017) from the University of Karachi. CP patients who volunteered for the study were randomly assigned to either the control group or to groups receiving interventions involving Al Fatiha and NAI exposure. Due to the limited number of consents obtained, participants were selected without consideration of age, cognition level, gender, mobility, motor type, and additional impairments. While all groups continued their regular therapies, the intervention groups underwent 31 structured sessions over a period of 6 weeks. Five Lumosity games were selected to assess the cognitive performance of all inducted participants in the three groups. Statistical analysis including paired t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and post hoc tests was conducted using SPSS version 28 to compare outcomes among the three groups. Results Paired t-tests showed that the Al Fatiha intervention significantly enhanced selective attention (1133.3 ± 584.8, p < .05) and working memory (31,036.2 ± 4013.9, p < .001), while the NAI intervention resulted in improvements in information processing (31,036.2 ± 4013.9, p < .01), selective attention (1150.0 ± 705.3, p < .01), spatial fluency (6830.7 ± 4720.0, p < .01), and spatial reasoning (8719.3 ± 3499.5, p < .01). Apart from intervention groups, only spatial reasoning was improved in the control group (9068.3 ± 3450.1, p < 0.05). One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc analysis showed significant differences among the control and intervention groups at baseline in information processing, selective attention, and spatial fluency. These cognitive functions are likely attributable to increased neuronal activity in the prefrontal cortex and elevated serotonin levels. Conclusion Based on the findings, both interventions are proposed as advanced, complementary, non-pharmacological, and cost-effective cognitive rehabilitation therapies for patients with CP. We recommend further research to validate these findings through second and third-phase clinical trials.

Children, juveniles, and crime in early modern London: Old Bailey trials, 1674–1750

Abstract This article uses the early records of the Old Bailey to examine how the court handled cases involving children and juveniles, whether as offenders, victims or witnesses. It argues that though juvenile courts belong to a later age, the early modern court was already applying different criteria in trying young offenders. It demonstrates how juries used age, gender and related considerations to justify the ‘pious perjury’ that sheltered many from the full rigour of the law. Previous work on children as victims has focused on child-rape and infanticide. This article explores other categories. It argues that in cases of death following a severe beating the court's sympathies lay firmly with the defendants, determined to uphold the authority of employers and parents. Lastly, the article explores cases involving children as witnesses, which raised difficult questions about the admissibility of evidence. Judges had to decide if the youngster was sufficiently mature to give evidence on oath.

Finding the Nexus between Gender-Based Violence and Conservation

This review paper explores the complex and multifaceted relationship between gender-based violence (GBV) and conservation efforts, emphasizing the interconnected challenges faced by rural communities. It analyzes how GBV undermines conservation outcomes by limiting women’s participation, eroding traditional ecological knowledge, exacerbating resource exploitation, and weakening community resilience. Drawing on case studies from Northern Ghana, India, and Tanzania, the paper highlights how environmental issues such as resource scarcity, displacement, and conservation-related conflicts increase the vulnerability of women to GBV. The review also discusses strategies for addressing these challenges, including empowering women, integrating gender considerations into conservation policies, and creating safe environments for participation. Finally, it calls for more research into the links between GBV and conservation, urging the development of targeted interventions that address the root causes of both GBV and environmental degradation. By integrating gender-sensitive approaches, conservation initiatives can achieve more equitable and sustainable outcomes for all community members. Keywords: Gender Equality, Women's Empowerment, Social Cohesion, Ecological Knowledge, Sustainable Resource Management

Toward tenure security: The relationship between women's land ownership, formal land title documents and their empowerment

Respect for land rights for women, as a key strategy to promote their development and empowerment as well as improving their welfare, has been considered in today's societies. However, there have been few empirical studies to back up this statement. Therefore, the primary goal of this research was to find out whether or not women may increase their authority through economic tenure security, legal tenure security, household characteristic, or de facto tenure security. In this regard, the survey data collected in 2021 from 28 villages of Mazandaran province (Northern Iran) were analyzed. The study highlights the significance of de facto tenure security as the most crucial among the four qualities assessed. It's important to note, however, that possessing land titles doesn't necessarily guarantee de facto tenure security. Despite this distinction, the study reveals a meaningful correlation, suggesting that women with land titles are more likely to experience higher levels of empowerment. Official certification, resolution of tenure disputes, increased agricultural income, and the impact of regional urbanization all play an important role in empowering rural women, which usually results in better economic outcomes for them. According to the results, it is evident that the legal registration of women's land ownership correlates with enhanced women's empowerment within rural communities. Land ownership provides women with the means to generate income, make independent choices, and actively participate in various aspects of social and economic life. The findings of this study underscore potential shortcomings in gender neutrality within land interventions, emphasizing the necessity for incorporating gender considerations into research and land-use planning. The practitioners and policy-makers may utilize the study's findings to invest in programs that include components of land tenure security and increase women's economic empowerment.

Physical fitness and body build parameters of children and adolescents participating in the physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for all!”

BackgroundThis study attempts to analyse physical fitness and basic anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents participating in the nationwide physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for All!” (AFA). The programme aims to establish a national system for diagnosing, selecting, recruiting, and identifying talents in youth training. It also aims to build a career development path for athletics, forming the basis of a new structure for youth training in Poland. The primary goal of this study was to assess physical fitness of AFA participants over the years of its implementation (2015–2022) and to identify the leading motor ability with consideration for age, gender, and body build parameters determined with Body Mass Index and Ponderal Index.MethodsNationwide measurements of basic anthropometric parameters as well as physical fitness tests were conducted among 31,790 girls (F) and 22,260 boys (M) participating in the AFA programme. Physical fitness assessments were performed using the OSF test (3 × 10 m shuttle run, standing broad jump, 1 kg medicine ball throw, 4-minute run). Comparative analysis of OSF test results, considering gender, was conducted using the independent samples T-test. The strength and direction of correlations between variables were calculated using the rho-Spearman coefficient.ResultsOSF test results were converted into points, considering age and gender. Gender was found to be a significantly differentiating factor in physical fitness of AFA participants. Among twelve- and fifteen-year-olds, statistically significant differences were observed in all analysed variables, i.e. in each of the four tests and the overall score. It was noted that the examined girls aged 11 to 17 exhibited higher levels of strength compared to their male counterparts. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between OSF test results and the age and body build indicators, with the strength of the correlations being negligible in most cases.ConclusionsParticipants of the nationwide programme “Athletics for All!” demonstrate a high level of physical fitness, with endurance being a fundamental motor ability. Physical fitness levels show significant correlations with the anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents. The study results confirm the need and justification for implementing physical activity promotion programmes for the younger generation.

Sex versus gender associations with depressive symptom trajectories over 24 months in first-episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders

BackgroundFemales with schizophrenia often experience more severe and persistent depressive symptoms than males, in particular during the acute phase of the illness. In contrast to sex (a biological distinction), little is known about the associations between gender (a societal construct) and depression in schizophrenia. AimWe examined the associations of sex versus gender with visit-wise changes in depressive symptoms over 24 months in patients with first-episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders (FES) (n = 77) compared to matched healthy controls (n = 64). MethodsThe Bem Sex Role Inventory was used to measure feminine gender role endorsement. The Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia was used to measure depressive symptoms at baseline, weeks 2, 4, and 6, and months 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24. We used mixed models for continuous repeated measures to examine the moderating effects of childhood trauma, premorbid adjustment, age of psychosis onset, and cannabis use on the associations of sex and gender with depressive symptoms. ResultsHigher feminine gender role endorsement, independent of biological sex, was associated with more severe baseline depression and worse initial treatment trajectories. Childhood trauma exposure was also associated with worse depression outcomes, and mediated the association between gender and pre-treatment depression severities. ConclusionsGender, but not sex, was associated with depressive symptom trajectories in FES. The consideration of both sex and gender offered a more nuanced insight into depressive symptoms compared to biological sex alone.

Gender-based provisions in mental health legislation: a review of English language jurisdictions.

Legislation is a powerful tool for facilitating mental healthcare. Gender is an important social determinant of physical and mental health. Many jurisdictions are in the process of revising their mental health law, to align with human rights commitments. Consideration of gender in these revisions could enhance the mental healthcare received by women, transgender and non-binary individuals. This paper examines gender-based provisions in mental health law published in English. Countries that use English as an official language were identified. Jurisdictions in these countries with stand-alone mental health laws were included. Legislation was reviewed for gender-specific provisions. Seventy-five countries were evaluated; 71 jurisdictions were included. Thirty-eight jurisdictions had 88 gender-specific provisions. These addressed ten key areas, including: general gender-based protections, female representation on boards and review panels, protections during searching and restraint, gender separated facilities, protections in relation to parenting, fertility, sterilisation and termination. Fiji, Ghana, India, and the Australian jurisdictions had the highest number of gender-specific laws. However, gender-specific provisions are highly heterogeneous and are drafted from a cisnormative perspective and fail to adequately address the specific needs of individuals outside of that framework. Gender-specific provisions can enhance the protections afforded by mental health law. However, as legislation can be a blunt instrument, careful consideration must be given to potential unintended consequences. During revisions of mental health law consideration should be given to gender-specific provisions and legislation must be inclusive of individuals identifying as transgender, non-binary and other genders.

Gender identity and symptoms of anxiety and depression and their relationship with sleep disorders among Polish adolescents during the Covid-19 pandemic and the outbreak of war in the Ukraine.

For most people, gender identity is consistent with biological sex and such people are called cisgender. People in whom such a relationship does not occur or occurs to a lesser extent are referred to as gender non-conforming-and these include transgender, non-binary, agender and gender-fluid people. These individuals are usually affected by minority stress, which, combined with the circumstances of the pandemic and Russian aggression against Ukraine, may have led to mental disorders and sleep disorders in this population. The aim of the study was to analyze the symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia in a group of Polish youth during the Covid-19 pandemic and the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, taking into consideration gender differences, including non-binary gender. The study involved 1621 secondary school students aged 14 to 19, the average age was 16.73 ± 1.35, including 857 girls, 690 boys and 74 people who defined their gender as non-binary. A set of questionnaires for the Diagnosis of Depression in Children (CDI 2), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the X-1 subscale, The Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and an original questionnaire of sociodemographic data were used in research. Analyzing the results obtained in the study group, the respondents scored an average of 17.99 ± 9.55 points in the assessment of depressive symptoms. After division into groups taking into account gender, the corresponding score was 19.69 ± 9.40 points for girls, 15.03 ± 8.68 for boys and 25.86 ± 9.91 for non-binary people. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.000) in all three study groups. In the anxiety symptoms assessment, the respondents scored an average of 46.92 ± 11.67 points. After division into gender groups, the corresponding score was 49.21 ± 11.12 points for girls, 43.39 ± 11.47 for boys and 53.39 ± 10.41 for non-binary people. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.000) in all three study groups. Analyzing the results obtained in The Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), the average score was 8.31 ± 4.58 points, which allows to evaluate sleep onset as a norm. After dividing into groups, the results were 8.95 ± 4.55 points, respectively for girls, 7.19 ± 4.21 points for boys and 11.35 ± 5.43 for non-binary people, the difference was significant in terms of comparisons between all statistically tested groups. The analysis of the relationships between the studied variables was presented for each gender separately. Statistically significant positive correlations were found between the results obtained on the scale assessing depressive symptoms (CDI-2) and anxiety symptoms (STAI-X1) and the results obtained on the AIS scale. Among the studied group of teenagers, the highest intensity of depressive symptoms is demonstrated by non-binary people, followed by females, and finally by males. Similar results were obtained in the assessment of anxiety symptoms. The non-binary group achieved results indicating sleep disorders, while the cisgender group's results of sleep onset were borderline normal. Whatsmore, the greater the severity of depressive and anxiety disorders, the greater the sleep disorders in all study groups, regardless of gender.

Experiences with Green Charcoal: A Gender Consideration of Rural and Urban Households in Gulu District

The study focused on the use of green charcoal, a sustainable cooking fuel made from agricultural residues, in Gulu District, to highlight the experiences households have encountered, from a gender perspective. The study followed a cross-sectional design using qualitative approach which included the use of one-on-one interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and ethnographic observations for data collection. The findings show that households in Gulu District use a combination of cooking fuels such as firewood, wood charcoal, green charcoal, or gas. Furthermore, the study established that there were cases where both men and women had shared experiences in cooking, for example, knowledge of the faster cooking rate, cleanliness, and much ash content involved while using green charcoal. However, to a larger extent, there were gendered differences in cooking activities: while women predominantly handle cooking, men often influence decisions about what and how to cook, revealing underlying gender and power dynamics within households. Key findings indicate that green charcoal is favored for its affordability relative to traditional black charcoal, prolonged burn time, and higher heat output, though it is also harder to light and produces more ash. It is particularly popular in rural Owoo Sub-County, where residents are more involved in its production compared to their urban counterparts in Gulu City. The study concluded that positive experiences with green charcoal have facilitated its adoption and recommends further actions to promote its use. These include increasing awareness of its environmental, health, and financial benefits, improving product quality, and involving women and girls as advocates to expand its utilization

CLASSIFICATION OF ARTICLES IN FRENCH LANGUAGE

Articles are fundamental grammatical elements in French, serving to define the specificity, definiteness, or generality of a noun. The system of articles in French is complex, as it involves distinctions between definite and indefinite articles, as well as considerations of gender (masculine vs. feminine), number (singular vs. plural), and phonetic factors (e.g., vowel elision). This paper aims to analyze the use of articles in French, exploring their syntactic and semantic functions, as well as their role in conveying meaning and shaping discourse.

Scientific consideration of sex and gender is the responsibility of the many, not the few

Scientific consideration of sex and gender is the responsibility of the many, not the few

Factors influencing the social acceptance of brain-computer interface technology among Chinese general public: an exploratory study.

This study investigates the impact of social factors on public acceptance of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology within China's general population. As BCI emerges as a pivotal advancement in artificial intelligence and a cornerstone of Industry 5.0, understanding its societal reception is crucial. Utilizing data from the Psychological and Behavioral Study of Chinese Residents (N = 1,923), this research examines the roles of learning ability, age, health, social support, and socioeconomic status in BCI acceptance, alongside considerations of gender and the level of monthly household income. Multiple regression analysis via STATA-MP18 reveals that while health, socioeconomic status, social support, and learning ability significantly positively correlate with acceptance, and age presents an inverse relationship, gender and household income do not demonstrate a significant effect. Notably, the prominence of learning ability and social support as principal factors suggests targeted avenues for increasing BCI technology adoption. These findings refine the current understanding of technology acceptance and offer actionable insights for BCI policy and practical applications.

Job Resources, Employee Engagement, and Innovative Work Behaviour of Bank Employees: Does Sex Matter?

This study examined the relationships between job resources, employee engagement, and innovative work behavior among bank employees, taking into consideration gender differences. Data were gathered from 159 bank workers in the Cape Coast metropolis using a structured questionnaire, and data analysis was carried out using Structural Equation Modelling 4.9.8. A multigroup analysis was also done to assess how different gender roles affect the relationship between job resources, employee engagement, and the innovative work behavior of bank workers. The study found that job resources did not have a direct relationship with innovative work behavior but did so indirectly through employee engagement. Furthermore, the multigroup analysis revealed that when women have access to good job resources, they feel more engaged in their work, increasing their innovative behaviors compared to men. This study addresses a knowledge vacuum in the banking industry by examining the relationships between job resources, employee engagement, and innovative work behavior. It offers empirical evidence in a context that has yet to be extensively studied.

Functional knee stability in elite field hockey depends on playing class and gender

Field hockey, a physically demanding Olympic sport, carries a high risk of lower limb injuries, yet data on injury risk in elite field hockey are limited. Functional knee stability is important for injury prevention and a safe return to sport. This study is the first to investigate functional knee stability in elite field hockey, considering gender and playing class, and establishes reference data for functional knee stability by using a standardized test battery that assesses one- and two-legged stability, jumping tests, speed, and agility. 72 elite field hockey players, 30 males and 42 females (age 19.82 ± 3.74 years) were divided into High Playing Class (HPC) and Moderate Playing Class (MPC). HPC players showed significant better performance in all functional tests except balance tests (p <0.01-0.024). Females showed significantly better one- and two-leg stability (p <0.01) with lower injury rates, indicating the relevance of gender considerations. The study emphasizes the importance of balance and stability in the prevention of lower limb injuries in Olympic field hockey and also highlights the importance of considering pre-existing deficits in functional knee capability when assessing athletes for return to sport. These results can help improve athletic performance, identify individual strengths and weaknesses, prevent injury or re-injury, and facilitate return to sport after injury.

Evaluation of Some Hematological Parameters for Patients Infected with Entamoeba Histolytica in Najaf Governorate

General background: Amoebic dysentery caused by Entamoeba histolytica is a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with poor sanitation. It can lead to various complications, including changes in blood parameters. Specific background: Identifying changes in blood indicators during amoebic infections can aid early diagnosis and improve patient outcomes. Knowledge gap: There is limited research exploring gender-based differences in blood parameters of patients with amoebiasis. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of E. histolytica infection on specific blood parameters in male and female patients and to assess gender-based variations in these parameters. Results: A total of 45 patients (20 males, 25 females) diagnosed with amoebiasis were included, with samples collected between May 2023 and January 2024. Significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) were observed between male and female patients in RBC, HB, HCT, and MCH, while no significant differences were noted for MCV, MCHC, RDW, PLT, WBC, or LYM. Male patients showed higher mean values of RBC (5.01 ± 0.65) and HB (14.6 ± 1.61) compared to females (RBC: 4.5 ± 0.54; HB: 12.28 ± 1.24). Novelty: This study highlights gender-specific alterations in blood parameters during amoebiasis, providing new insights into how gender affects physiological responses to E. histolytica infection. Implications: Regular monitoring of blood parameters, particularly RBC and HB, in patients with amoebiasis is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. The findings also underscore the importance of gender considerations in clinical management and suggest the need for larger studies to confirm these results and explore their diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Highlights: Gender impacts blood parameters in amoebiasis patients. Males show higher RBC and HB than females. Regular monitoring aids early E. histolytica diagnosis. Keywords: Amoebic dysentery, Entamoeba histolytica, blood parameters, gender differences, early diagnosis

Connecting gender equality with sustainability in early childhood: educators understandings in Victoria, Australia

Three decades of international recommendations have highlighted the importance of advancing gender equality in achieving the aims of Education for Sustainability (EfS) at all levels of education. However, there has been a persistent disconnect between considerations of gender and sustainability in early childhood education (ECE). This article presents findings from a small-scale, mixed methods research project that sought to address this gap. The project explored educators’ understandings of the relationship between gender equality and sustainability, using survey and interview methods, with early childhood educators in Victoria, Australia. Key findings indicate a disconnection between discourses of sustainability and gender equality obscures educators’ perceptions of the ways that gender influences EfS in ECE. Equally, while the majority of participants had not previously considered their connection, they believed gender equality is important to, and pedagogically aligned with, their sustainability teaching objectives. The findings are used to propose a Continuum of Gender Equitable Early Childhood Education for Sustainability.

Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of interventions aimed at delabeling low-risk penicillin allergies with consideration for sex and gender

BackgroundApproximately, 10% of people report a penicillin allergy; however, more than 90% can safely undergo delabeling after a detailed history, oral challenge, or other investigations such as penicillin skin testing (PST). Although PST is the gold standard, the results can be heterogeneous, and awaiting specialist assessment may take an inordinate amount of time. Therefore, oral provocation challenge has become acceptable for individuals with low-risk penicillin allergy histories. There also appears to be an association with increased prevalence of adverse drug reaction reporting in female individuals, which may translate to penicillin allergy prevalence; however, the evidence has not been assessed through a sex and gender lens. This systematic review will identify and synthesize the findings from studies that report measures of effectiveness and safety of interventions aimed at delabeling penicillin allergies in low-risk individuals. Information related to sex and gender will be extracted, where available, to understand potential differences in allergy reporting and patient outcomes.MethodsThe Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the Centre for Review and Dissemination’s Guidance for Undertaking Reviews in Health Care will be used as frameworks for conducting this systematic review. The literature search will be conducted by a medical librarian (B. M. M.) and will consist of a search strategy to identify and retrieve published studies that meet our inclusion criteria. Studies that require penicillin skin testing (PST) as a step prior to other interventions will be excluded. Integrated knowledge translation involving co-design was carried out for this systematic review protocol creation. Data extraction will be conducted at four levels: (1) study level, (2) patient level, (3) intervention level, and (4) outcome level. A narrative descriptive synthesis of results and risk of bias of all included studies will be provided, and, if relevant, a meta-analysis will be performed.DiscussionThe dissemination of findings from this knowledge synthesis to various stakeholders is intended to inform on options for evidence-based interventions to aid in delabeling penicillin allergies in individuals with a low risk of experiencing a hypersensitivity reaction. Detailed reporting on the characteristics of delabeling interventions as well as the effectiveness of similar interventions will benefit policy makers considering the implementation of a penicillin allergy delabeling protocol. Additionally, findings from this systematic review will report on the current evidence regarding the role of sex and gender in both the prevalence and outcomes associated with the presence of penicillin allergies.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42022336457.

Sex and Gender Considerations in Orthopaedic Research

Abstract JBJS convened a symposium to discuss the reporting of sex and gender in research studies as an imperative to improve research methods and results to benefit all patients. Barriers to improved reporting include a lack of societal and cultural acceptance of its need; a lack of education regarding appropriate terminology and appropriate statistical methods and efficient study designs; a need for increased research funding to support larger group sizes; unknown concordance of cell and animal models with humans to reflect biologic variables such as sex; and a lack of understanding of key considerations of gender, race, and other social determinants of health and how these factors intersect. Attention to developing and disseminating best-practice statistical methods and to educating investigators (at all career levels), reviewers, funders, editors, and staff in their proper implementation will aid reporting. Concomitantly, well-designed studies with sufficient rigor and adequate resources are essential to enable meaningful and reproducible research. Existing recommendations, such as the Sex and Gender Equity in Research (SAGER) guidelines, provide valuable guidance that can be applied across the research ecosystem. Academic institutions and private foundations are likely groups to assist in scientific and institutional review board guidance and study recruitment and pilot funding to generate meaningful power estimates, and to serve as sources for additional funding and presentation of workshops, educational events, and seminars. All of this needs to be conducted on an ongoing basis to ensure that sex and gender are considered in scientific analyses, where relevant.

Evaluating forest conservation policies of Bhutan: sensitiveness and responsiveness to gender considerations

Putting gender at the centre of policy analysis is a crucial task, yet one rarely accomplished effectively. Gender research in South Asia has increasingly emphasised the importance of evolving dynamics and balancing the gender participation in forest policy and practice. Efforts have been undertaken to enhance women involvement in local governance including forest conservation through policy measures that include community forestry initiatives across South East Asia as well as in Bhutan. However, this has not led to a more equitable role for men and women in the forestry industry since it has not properly addressed the underlying issues of power dynamics and inequality. This investigation aimed to evaluate the incorporation of gender issues in Bhutan's forest policies over 50 years. In order to gauge the level of forest conservation policy responsiveness towards gender needs and demands, we employed content analysis and discourse analysis based on an analytical framework centred on various dimensions including socio-economic, socio-cultural, political and operational procedures. The results highlight that the policies concerning forest conservation utilized gender-neutral language when referring to the larger discourse of communities. Notably, terms with connotations specific to men outweigh those associated with women. While phrases specifically addressing women were irregularly and inconsistently employed in certain policy documents, discerning distinct trends in their usage remains challenging. The analysis underscores that only a limited number of forest policies in Bhutan display gender responsiveness, necessitating a greater comprehension of gender roles in forest conservation.