Gender equality and social inclusion

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) works to accelerate gender equality and social inclusion in water systems and water management. Our teams are dedicated to ensuring that women and men of all ages, specifically those in underrepresented and marginalized communities, have agency and are able to fully participate in water governance and agricultural resource management. Researchers perform gender analyses to gain better understanding of social and power relations across all groups and to promote successful and sustainable water solutions. 

IWMI aims to break barriers in water and agriculture by addressing gender inequality at its root — ensuring equal access to resources, knowledge, and opportunities. IWMI’s research and programs:

  • Empower women farmers through inclusive policies and financial access. 
  • Integrate youth and marginalized groups into water and agricultural decision-making. 
  • Drive innovation through gender-sensitive technologies and inclusive scaling approaches. 

Contact

Karen Nortje

Karen Nortje

Research Group Leader – Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)

Latest news on this topic

Latest publications on this topic

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Book

A Self-Guided Handbook on the Use of the GenderUp Method for Responsible Scaling of Innovation

International Water Management Institute | May 12th, 2026
Becker, Kristen; McGuire, Erin; Enokenwa Baa, Ojongetakah; Liani, Millicent Lodenyi; Nortje, Karen
Open Access
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Brief

Al Murunah: Building Climate-Resilient Water and Food Systems in Jordan’s Fragile Areas

International Water Management Institute | May 8th, 2026
Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Abeyrathna, Wasudha Prabodhani; Hayajneh, Ali; Slehat, Faizah
Open Access
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Brief

Al Murunah: From Pilot to Practice, Building Readiness for Adoption and Scaling of Resilient Nature-Based Water Solutions

International Water Management Institute | May 7th, 2026
Palay, Isis; Fragaszy, Stephen; Stifel, Elizabeth; Gharaibeh, Sawsan
Open Access