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

Thumbnail
Report

From Design to Impact: Insights from WMfEP’s Gender-Responsive Initiatives for Women and Youth in Tank and D.I. Khan Districts, Pakistan

International Water Management Institute | March 26th, 2026
Begum, Khadija; Ilyas, Nouman; Hussain, Kashif
Open Access
Thumbnail
Journal Article

Broadening the Dimensions of the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus: A Narrative Review

Public Library of Science | March 20th, 2026
Mabhaudhi, T.; Dlamini, N.; Geza, W.; Taguta, C.; Dirwai, Tinashe Lindel; Nhamo, L.; Mpandeli, S.; Chibarabada, T. P.; Jewitt, G. P. W.; Slotow, R. H.
Open Access
Thumbnail
Report

Innovative Financing Solutions for Water-Agriculture Innovations in Nepal

International Water Management Institute | March 18th, 2026
Fanaian, Safa; Shrestha, Shisher; Adhikari, Aashika; Magar, K. T.; Rana, O.; Pokharel, S.; Sapkota, H. S.
Open Access