Women in Development (WID) refers to a conceptual framework within the field of development studies that focuses on the role and status of women in economic, social, and political development. It emerged in the 1970s as a response to the shortcomings of previous development approaches that often marginalized women and failed to recognize their specific needs, contributions, and potential.
The WID approach aims to promote gender equality and women's empowerment by emphasizing the inclusion and active participation of women in development processes. It recognizes that women play a crucial role in sustainable development and posits that their full integration is essential for achieving meaningful progress. The approach strives to identify, address, and overcome the structural and institutional barriers and discrimination that hinder women's participation and further exacerbate gender inequalities.
The focus of WID is primarily on improving women's access to resources, enhancing their skills and capacities, and promoting their active involvement in decision-making at all levels. It encompasses various domains, including education, health, employment, agriculture, politics, and governance. WID also highlights the need to consider the diversity among women, acknowledging that the experiences, needs, and priorities of women across different contexts and social groups may vary significantly.
Overall, the Women in Development approach seeks to foster a more comprehensive understanding of development that takes into account gender dynamics and actively promotes women's rights, opportunities, and agency to achieve inclusive and equitable development outcomes.
