In March 2018, the 30-month research project began to understand and improve the economic and political agency of ethnic minority women in Shan State. Research focus on seven ethnic groups: Akha, Danu, Intha, Lahu, Pa-O, Palaung and Shan. The centrepiece of the research is a village level study, including 40 households from each ethnic group.
The research are identifying factors which affect women’s empowerment in three sectors: economic, political, and social, in order to examine women’s rights in their respective communities. By identifying factors which affect women’s voice and agency in decision-making across these sectors, the study also enhances knowledge regarding cultural norms. Critical analysis and knowledge of the norms of ethnic minority communities are essential to understand before recommendations are made to approach barriers for women’s participation in both economic and political development.
To address the issue of gender inequality, MIID applies an integrated approach with different stakeholders including village development committees, civil society leaders, NGOs, CSOs, and government.
The project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), as part of their Knowledge for Democracy Programme. The research are conducted in collaboration with local partners: Shwe Danu, Shwe Inle, and Parami Development Network in Southern Shan, and Mawk Kon Local Development Organisation in Eastern Shan State.