Understanding forces of resistance in gender mainstreaming in Nepal’s forest bureaucracy

Mainstreaming gender in Nepal’s forestry sector policies, institutions, and practices commenced as a response to the recognition of gender-based inequalities. The development of community forestry and national political changes over recent decades has facilitated a wider discussion on equity and justice, encouraging policy reforms. In this paper, we examine whether and how policies, strategies and institutions are challenging the status quo within the forest bureaucracy. More importantly, we identify forces of resistance that hinder effective implementation of gender-inclusive policies. The insights presented in this paper are based on data collected through central- and district-level workshops, document analysis, interviews, and direct observations. Based on the assessment at different levels, it is explicit that current efforts in the forestry sector to mainstream gender in policies, institutions and practices are limited. Policy changes indicate a progressive move towards mainstreaming gender to a certain extent while efforts to enable implementation of such policies are inadequate. For instance, a lack of institutional adaptation and organisational restructuring have hindered the effective implementation of these policies. Challenges identified at both central and district levels reflect broader socio-cultural norms deeply embedded in Nepal’s patriarchal society. One of the key recommendations of this study is the need for structural changes, such as radical institutional and organisational reforms, to drive transformational behavioural change. Additionally, other recommendations include revisiting existing policies, approving the GESI strategy, preparing an actionable implementation plan, and strengthening mechanisms for monitoring and law enforcement.