Gender Inclusion in the Integrated Decentralized Food System Governance: Barriers, opportunities and Lessons from District-Level in Cambodia

Abstract

This study examines the barriers and opportunities for gender inclusion in decentralized food system governance at the district level in Cambodia, with a focus on pilot initiatives in Prey Veng and Kampong Thom provinces. Despite national policies promoting gender equality, women remain significantly underrepresented in decision-making processes related to water management, fisheries, and agriculture-sectors that are central to rural livelihoods and natural resource sustainability. Using a qualitative research approach, the study combines document analysis with in-depth interviews to explore how social norms, gender roles, limited education, and weak policy implementation shape women’s participation in Natural Resource Management (NRM).