Goal

To promote gender equity and social inclusion (GESI) in livelihood programs in Bangladesh, ensuring that marginalized and vulnerable groups, especially women, have equal opportunities and resources to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Objectives

Assurance of active participation of women and marginalized groups in livelihood programs and decision-making processes. Provide equal access to resources and opportunities for all community members, regardless of gender or social status. Identify and address the unique vulnerabilities faced by women and marginalized groups in the context of climate change. Build the capacities of women and marginalized groups to engage in sustainable and resilient livelihood activities. Advocate for and implement gender-sensitive and socially inclusive policies in climate adaptation and livelihood programs.

Activities

Organize community meetings and focus groups that specifically include women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. Ensure equitable distribution of resources such as seeds, tools, and financial support, prioritizing women and marginalized groups. Develop and implement training programs tailored to the needs and circumstances of women and marginalized groups, focusing on sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, and other livelihood activities. Facilitate access to microfinance and savings groups for women and marginalized individuals to start and sustain livelihood ventures. Identify community-specific dynamics and social factors influencing climate change adaptation. Conduct gender-sensitive vulnerability assessments to identify the specific needs and challenges faced by women and marginalized groups in the face of climate change. Establish mentorship programs pairing experienced community members with women and marginalized individuals to support skill development and knowledge sharing. Engage local communities, ensuring that women and marginalized groups are actively involved in the planning and implementation of programs. Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, women’s organizations, and community-based organizations to leverage resources and expertise. Focus on building the capacity of local organizations and community leaders to promote and implement GESI principles. Organize capacity-building workshops on climate-resilient agricultural practices, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable livelihoods, with a focus on women and marginalized groups. Provide leadership and advocacy training for women and marginalized individuals to enable their active participation in community decision-making. Conduct training sessions for policymakers and program implementers on the importance of GESI in climate adaptation and livelihood programs. Provide access to climate-resilient technologies and innovations, ensuring that women and marginalized groups can utilize them effectively.

Expected Outcomes

Increased awareness and understanding of GESI barriers to climate change adaptation. Identification of GESI-based interventions to address these barriers in terms of climate change and sustainable livelihood options. Increased participation and leadership of women and marginalized groups in livelihood programs and community decision-making processes. Strengthened capacities of women and marginalized groups to engage in sustainable and resilient livelihood activities. Equitable access to resources, training, and financial support for all community members. Adoption of gender-sensitive and socially inclusive policies and practices in climate adaptation and livelihood programs.

Women are independently cultivating seasonal vegetables in the bank of pond as well as fish farming activities like collect fingerlings, raising fish in pond, sale & bargaining with vendor etc.