Empowering Women in Water Diplomacy: Baseline Study of Ethiopia

Abstract

Women are still underrepresented in decision-making processes regarding water. Women’s valuable skills and perspectives are not sufficiently harnessed in the fields of hydro-diplomacy and water diplomacy, which combine science, policy, and practical activity to help prevent the potential for conflict arising out of shared waterways. Increasingly, international forums now see the importance of full participation by women in water as vital to achieving water security, peace, SDG, and the Paris Agreement, but they will continue to be treated as passive victims of this process rather than as active agents for change. This article describes the results of a baseline assessment of women’s participation in water diplomacy within Ethiopia. An online survey of a group of 51 highly qualified professionals in the water sector, including individuals employed in government, academia, and related entities, was used to collect information regarding characteristics of the respondents, the role each of the respondents has played in the water sector, the level of understanding of water diplomacy, and the level of participation in related activities. Most respondents have a high level of awareness of water diplomacy practices; however, there is a marked difference between men and women with respect to both the level of understanding and the extent of participation, with a large percentage (over two-thirds) of women demonstrating a low level of engagement. Barriers for these women can be classified in three areas: cultural, institutional, and capacity. All respondents note that the involvement of women is essential for an equitable, effective, and sustainable means of managing water resources. A list of recommendations to advance inclusive hydro-diplomacy and support SDGs 5 and 6 is outlined, including targeted development of capacity, establishing strong organizations such as EWIWA, creating gender-responsive policy frameworks, and promoting active participation of women in negotiations and decision-making.