Rural Development and Women

In general, rural women have a strong desire to stay in their community and contribute to its development. They are also seeking a better balance in the division of labor in the domestic household, need encouragement for their personal and professional development and more support in their bid to achieve financial independence, and to participate fully in decision-making. The challenge for rural development programmes is to identify the constraints on women’s full participation in economic and public life at local level, and to develop specific initiatives in their favour. This book highlights some of the key issues that concern rural women and effect their participation in rural development. It takes a look at the new policy context and at some examples of good practice. The aim is to encourage and inspire those responsible for rural development programmes and projects to take into account the needs and interests of women in rural areas. The book will also be of great help to students, scholars, women activists, and NGOs working for women and rural development.