The Dynamics of Gender Power Relations and Women’s Participation

About the Publication

Between June and August 2023, Sheba Youth Foundation for Development conducted a research study on the dynamics of gender power and women’s participation, with funding from Oxfam. The study aimed to gather information on the needs and risks faced by women and girls, generate findings, and develop practical, actionable recommendations to inform more gender-responsive programming and strengthen interventions that enhance the resilience of vulnerable displaced people and conflict- and disaster-affected host communities in the targeted areas. It also sought to improve women’s participation in decision-making processes related to peace and security. The study covered rural and urban areas across five districts of Taiz Governorate: Al-Shamayatayn, Al-Ma’afer, Al-Mudhaffar, Al-Qahirah, and Salh. Its scope included an assessment of gender roles, relationships, and dynamics; capacities and vulnerabilities; protection; community governance; conflict resolution; participation; and access to services and assistance. The study’s sampling framework covered a broad range of conflict- and disaster-affected stakeholders, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable groups. A sample of 250 people was drawn from the target population, including marginalized communities and host communities living in rural, peri-urban, and urban areas across Taiz Governorate. A total of 196 interviews were conducted for data collection, comprising 85 in-depth interviews with men and women from vulnerable households, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), host communities, marginalized groups, and households with persons with disabilities; 105 interviews with key informants, including male and female community leaders and local authorities; and six focus group discussions involving 20 men and 40 women.