Women’s meaningful participation in community engagements for land-based investments

This Governance Flash examines why women’s meaningful participation in community engagements around land-based investments is essential for responsible and sustainable outcomes. Despite legal requirements and good practice standards, women are frequently excluded from decision-making due to sociocultural norms and structural barriers.

The briefing outlines why inclusive engagement benefits governments, investors and communities alike, and provides practical guidance on ensuring women are present, have voice, and hold decision-making power in consultations and negotiations. Strengthening women’s participation can improve development outcomes, enhance investment sustainability and ensure legal compliance.

ALIGN Governance Flashes are a series of short guidance notes designed to alert government officials of critical land-based investment governance considerations and possible responses to issues that might be falling through the cracks, leading to conflicts and poor outcomes.