Rural women participations in community development activities of Shan State in Myanmar: case study in Pekhon township area

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to explore the reasons role and challenges of rural women’s participation in community development activities of Shan State in Myanmar. Throughout the history of Myanmar, especially in Shan State area, rural women has lacked of political power, education and a role in administration. Consequently, they have lagged behind in socio-economic development. While women in general show interest in participating in community development activities, rural women do not seem to share the same motivation. To gain an understanding of their participation or the lack of it, this study explored the challenges women face to participating in community development activities.What are the roles of rural women participation in community development activities?What are the challenges for rural women to participate in community development activities?How do rural women overcome barriers and challenges to participate in community development Activities?To answer these questions this study employed qualitative research methods including in-depth interviews with Department of Rural Development (DRD) Civil services staff and observations with community members. The DRD is also a government organization that represents and promotes the sustainable livelihood standard of rural women through of all indigenousgroups in Myanmar.This studywasconducted in different locations and with different levels of development geography and livelihoods of two villages inPekhon township area, atTaunggyi district, Southern of Shan State. The challenges include language; education; cultural norms; health issues; Familiar burdens; poverty and limited formal access and control over assets.