Factors Influencing Gender Equity in Ecosystem Restoration: A Three-Country Analysis

Chhem R.; Elias M.; Thomas E.; Ekué M.R.M.; Gata L.L.P.; Cerron J.; Essouma F.M.; Ikeda L. · International Forestry Review (2026) · DOI: 10.1505/146554825840449605

Resumen

HIGHLIGHTS – Unequal gender relations are reflected in tenure arrangements, membership in associations, and hierarchies within communities that influence who is recognized as a legitimate stakeholder in restoration projects. Gender norms around labour, decision-making, and participation in public affairs, and women's limited land tenure systematically underpin procedural inequities in restoration projects. Early entry into projects, membership in associations, and land ownership improve access to benefits from restoration and are skewed along gender lines. Many of the factors shaping recognition, procedural and distributive equity are the same, and as such, can be addressed together to enhance equity across its three dimensions. Proposed approaches to enhance equity include strengthening women's capacities, associations and networks, and land tenure; enhancing communications and transparency in the distribution of benefits; and adopting gender transformative approaches. SUMMARY – Ecosystem restoration is a promising antidote to land and forest degradation and deforestation. Yet, achieving the ecological, social and economic promise of restoration in an equitable way hinges upon socio-institutional factors that remain poorly addressed in restoration theory and practice. This study examines the factors shaping gender equity across 17 restoration projects in Cameroon, Peru and the Philippines. Qualitative data collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions are interpreted using a framework that highlights the recognition, procedural and distributional dimensions of gender equity. Findings show that intersecting factors related to gender, land ownership, and membership in associations drive exclusion from, and inequity in, restoration initiatives. The cases reveal the promise of local associations, and the need to promote clear and secure land tenure, the active engagement of local women and men, and transparency in the distribution of benefits to pave the way for equitable restoration initiatives.