Working Papers

This paper focuses on gender issues in the context of water privatisation, which is currently underway in many third world countries. First, it delves into the issue of privatisation of water. Then it discusses the gender question and comes out with a framework for understanding and analysis in this regard. Further, it provides certain country cases to illustrate the nature of water privatisation and associated gender dimensions, including resistance/ struggle against privatisation by women. Finally, a way forward based on a tripartite partnership approach has been suggested. It is affirmed that water is a basic need and human right and hence there is a need to integrate gender concerns in the approach, policy, programmes, organisational structures and its operating mechanisms evolved for the purpose of water management and provisioning. Complete privatisation in the water sector is not desirable in the third world countries. Community and NGO initiatives need to be given priority and encouraged in water provisioning at the local level. Moreover, poor women have to be provided effective representation and voice in decision-making concerning water services so that their needs are met. This is not going to happen on its own, as the current stance of the state is towards privatisation of water. So, it is mainly the third sector (viz., community/ peoplea??s organisations and NGOs) that has to play an important role in this respect.