The actions of TFA 2020 Partners—both individually and collectively—take place in different contexts with unique social circumstances in which women, men, Indigenous peoples, and vulnerable groups have differentiated roles, uses, access, benefits, and control over environmental and social resources. As identified in a 2017 TFA 2020 paper, in South America, deforestation rates are between 6 and 350 times lower in forests legally recognized as belonging to Indigenous and local communities, yet they have legal rights to only 31% of forests in low and middle-income countries. Accepted norms for social interaction between groups result in differences regarding their status, class, and ethnicity—all influencing natural resource rights, control, and ownership, as well as who has power and voice in decision making. These factors impact the potential for successful and sustainable business outcomes.
This Resource Guide was developed by IUCN under its partnership with USAID on Advancing Gender in the Environment (AGENT). It identifies key resources, risks and opportunities, and best practices relevant to integrating gender equity and inclusion in sustainable commodity production and sourcing. Each section provides an overview on opportunities that exist to contribute towards a more prosperous and equitable TFA 2020, followed by case studies illustrating some of the many successful interventions that have been undertaken by TFA 2020 Partners. A list of recommended actions and relevant best practice example resources from TFA 2020 Partners is provided on each topic. This Guide is a roadmap for TFA 2020 Partners to locate and understand available resources on how to:
- Create and apply gender equity and inclusive principles and policies in your work;
- Implement gender-equitable and inclusive interventions throughout TFA 2020 supply chains; and
- Advance gender equity and inclusion through certifications.
