Publication

This paper uses examples from Ethiopia and India to analyzes the extent to which public works programs can better promote gender equity in rural economies. The authors find that to date gender equality objectives have mostly only been incorporated into public works programs as secondary goals, despite the evidence on the gendered nature of rural poverty and vulnerability. They suggest that relatively simple design changes combined with an investment in more strategic implementation practices and capacity strengthening initiatives are needed to enhance the potential of public works program to contribute to a transformation of gender relations and support more equitable opportunities for women in rural economies.