Promoting gender equality and social inclusion in fisheries and aquaculture

Gender equality is a fundamental principle across all sectors, including fisheries and aquaculture, which contribute significantly to global food security and sustain the livelihoods of over 600 million individuals worldwide. However, persistent gender-based constraints (GBCs) limit women’s rights and opportunities throughout the aquatic food value chains. These constraints are largely rooted in unequal gender norms that affect access to resources and decision-making power and contribute to gender-based violence (GBV). For instance, the gendered division of labor results in unequal workloads, limited decision-making power, and reduced profitability for women. Additionally, women face barriers to accessing profitable markets, owning fishing or processing equipment, and investing in their businesses, further hindering their economic independence.

Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach, including adopting Gender-Transformative Approaches (GTAs), exemplified by training programs implemented through FAO projects in support of small-scale fisheries. GTAs seek to address power imbalances at individual and societal levels by fostering deeper systemic change and empowering women as agents of change. This approach involves challenging harmful gender norms, promoting equitable decision-making, and cultivating supportive environments enabling women to thrive in the sector.

The effective implementation of GTAs and promotion of gender-responsive interventions are crucial in fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for all stakeholders.