Women's participation in community development projects: the case of Khmu women in Laos

Abstract

This thesis explores Khmu women‟s participation in community development projects in Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR. Although the Khmu is the second largest ethnic group in Laos, they are also the poorest. Throughout the history of Laos, the Khmu have lacked political power, education and a role in administration. Consequently, they have lagged behind in socio-economic development. While Lao women in general show interest in participating in development projects, Khmu women do not seem to share the same motivation. To gain an understanding of their participation or the lack of it, this study explores the barriers women face to participating in project activities. What are the roles of women within the Khmu community? What are the barriers and how do they overcome them? What is the role of development partners in involving the Khmu women in participation in community development projects? To answer these questions this study employed qualitative research methods including in-depth interviews and observations with community members, project staff and the Lao Women‟s Union (LWU). The LWU is a governmental organisation that represents and promotes the interests of women and children of all ethnic groups. This study is conducted in two Khmu villages, in different locations and with different levels of development geography and livelihoods. One is officially identified as poor and recently resettled and the other one is on a main road which has easy access. Both are project villages for World Vision Laos.

In the Khmu culture women are expected to participate in the household and community activities. However, this study found that there is no word for participation in the Khmu language. Neither is there a direct translation in Lao for those who seek to encourage participation. Women view their participation in the household and the community as making a contribution or sharing. But this does not include any expectation for them to be involved in decision making or leadership. This study found that similar roles such as cleaning and serving are adopted by women in development projects. This research shows that Khmu women experience barriers to participation in project activities. The barriers include language; education; cultural norms; health issues; workload; resettlement; poverty; low self-esteem; staff and project approach; the village administrative structure; fewer opportunities with development projects; and limited formal access and control over assets. To overcome these barriers and to participate in development projects women would benefit from greater support. The results of this study indentified many roles that staff play when working with the community for example, teacher/trainer; learner; follower; advisor; demonstrator/role model and advocate. These roles each have different implications for women's participation. Where voluntary participation is not forthcoming, staff may use government power to encourage women‟s attendance. This study concludes that to empower women to overcome barriers themselves and participate more fully in community development requires both men and community to provide support and acceptance.