Foreword

Throughout the developing world, the water and gender scenario is all too familiar: women labour to provide water for household needs while men make decisions about water resources management and development at both local and national levels. We believe projects, programmes and policies that address gender inequalities will enhance both water resources management and human development opportunities for both men and women.

In many cases the analysis of gender perspectives in relation to water resources must be context-specific. Productive versus domestic use of water, women’s and men’s access to and control over water, and land, credit and extension services are examples of issues that need to be addressed. The now abundant literature about gender relations in water management has been inventoried for easy access by all users. In the process, many valuable resources have been identified and compiled. But gaps in information have also emerged, showing the need for further research in this sector.

The initial UNDP Resource Guide for Mainstreaming Gender in Water Management was launched during the 3rd World Water Forum in Kyoto in 2003. The feedback received since then has shaped this second, totally revised version introduced in March 2006 during the 4th World Water Forum in Mexico. This once again edited edition of August 2006 is available in four languages: English, French, Spanish and Arabic. Most sections of the latter three versions are translations from English, but some are original texts specific to the language region. Such an approach gives scope for much wider distribution and utilization of the Resource Guide.

This edition of the Resource Guide divides the resources among thirteen water sub-sectors, to facilitate access for specific purposes and water uses. Introductions to the sectors describe current debates and gender issues. References, resources (including manuals and guidelines), case studies and relevant websites are all grouped by sub-sector. The Gender and Water Alliance writers of this document tried to keep in mind easy reading and clear categorization throughout the writing process. Nevertheless, readers are advised to browse through the whole Resource Guide when in search of useful and interesting documents.

With this Resource Guide, UNDP, GWA, IRC, Cap-Net and GWP seek to assist water professionals, politicians, gender specialists and others in their efforts to provide improved access to water for poor women, children and men all over the world. We welcome users’ assistance in the form of comments, additions, case studies and other feedback for future editions and for the regular updating of the website version of the Resource Guide at www.genderandwater.org/