Strengthening Women’s Decision-Making Power: Examining Local Participation in Forest and Pasture Users’ Associations in Albania

Abstract: Efforts to empower Albanian women and strengthen their participation in decision-making in local Forest and Pasture Users’ Associations (FPUAs) have been undertaken by the Environmental Services Project, including implementing the Gender Action Plan. The phenomenon of women’s agency and participation in decision-making in this local setting is examined in this study by answering the following: (I) Who currently holds the majority of decision-making power in FPUAs and why? (II) What factors determine women’s participation and decision-making power in FPUAs? (III) How can women’s participation in and influence on decision-making in FPUAs be enhanced? The data was collected through semi-structured interviews with project implementers and an online survey with FPUA members. Findings demonstrate that main determinants connected to economic dependence, double-burden, time poverty, lack of self-consciousness constrain women’s participation and decision-making power. These stem from traditional gender roles that dictate women’s role and responsibilities. Examples of policy enforcement, capacity building, and awareness show positive results in women’s representation and confidence to raise their voice. However, to transform voice into influence on decision-making, collective action, and men’s involvement in women’s empowerment is necessary to address inequities.