Participatory gender analysis: a tool to promote gender equity within the Union Parishad in Bangladesh

These guidelines have been prepared as a tool for conducting participatory discussion and analysis on the social position and condition of men and women within the context of the Union Parishad (UP) regional structure in Bangladesh. The guidelines build on the experiences and lessons in the field and aim to help participants to reflect on their experiences of gender (in)equalities and then take initiatives to decide on a course of action.

The gender analysis tool is designed specifically to: 

• create awareness among UP and standing Committee members regarding prevailing gender inequalities at family, community and Union level through participatory discussion and debate 
  
• encourage the UP to commit itself to creating an enabling environment within the Union to promote equal rights and opportunities for women and men 
  
• help the participants build a coordinated action plan for the UP for reducing gender discrimination within the Union

The tool highlights the main components of Gender Analysis Exercises and the processes of using the Gender Analysis Framework, explaining the three broad steps in applying the gender analysis framework at Union Parishad level. It includes five session plans for facilitators, tips and recommended steps, a gender analysis questionnaire and possibly activities for a participatory gender analysis action plan.

The guidelines are available both in English and in Bangla.