Current low levels of participation by women in forest management decision-making and governance are issues of major concern to the Major Group WOMEN. Obstacles and constraints faced by women include: degraded environments and poverty; low levels of awareness amongst policy makers and administrators on how gender issues affect forest management; limited numbers of women in decision making roles; limited implementation of policies and legislation for gender equity and women's inclusion; and insufficient female staff, mentors and networks in forestry institutions. More strategic concerted efforts and commitment by all actors engaged in Sustainable Forest Management are needed to strengthen women's role in the processes and implementation of the NLBFI of the UNFF.
In order to promote the adoption of action oriented policy decisions for the NLBI through 2015, the Major Group WOMEN proposes specific recommendations and activities as priority areas for action. These include initiatives for research, training, advocacy, policy inputs for gender mainstreaming, pilot projects that demonstrate collaboration between governments and Major Group WOMEN and media presentations showcasing successful initiatives in a few countries.
