WASH and Gender: a critical review of the literature and implications for gender-transformative WASH

How can WASH researchers and practitioners include a diversity of voices, reflect on the strengths and limitations of research disciplines, and incorporate gender-transformative concepts?

Although many aspects of WASH have long been acknowledged to be gendered, such as water collection, cooking, cleaning, and childcare (White et al. 1972), the historical focus on engineered solutions in WASH has limited the sector’s attention to gender (Willetts et al. 2010). More recently, there is merging recognition in the sector that bridging practical gender needs (e.g. access to water) with strategic gender interests (e.g. changes in power and roles) is critical to achieving transformational changes in gender equality. This Review Paper explores how empirical studies on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) over the last decade have engaged with gender equality. 

Written by Partners - Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney, WASH and Gender is a must read for those WASH researchers and pracitioners seeking to embed gender-transformative approaches, concepts, and voices in their work. 

Jess MacArthur, Naomi Carrard and Juliet Willetts

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