GENDER

Photo © GPEI

Gender plays a role in community-based surveillance programs. The ability of CBS volunteers to perform their duties will be affected by gender norms and practices in the community and in households. Understanding gender relations and norms in the community, and addressing any gender barriers facing volunteers, is critical for effective CBS.

Women’s opportunities to voice their concerns, and power to influence decisions and community programming around health, can be limited by gender roles and structural gender inequality. It is important for CBS volunteers to be aware of barriers that women face in the community so that they do not blame women for things like not seeking care for their child wit hAFP or having an unvaccinated child.

CONSIDER THESE PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS FOR YOUR CBS PROGRAM:

Disaggregating the data on AFP cases by sex will help you recognize any gender-related differences in the identification and reporting of AFP cases. Tracking gender data on the community volunteers (e.g., how many men and women are participating in trainings, in decision-making roles, remaining active in the program) can also be important.
Consider an exploratory trip to the community before you implement your CBS program to find out how to engage both women and men and capture their views. Spend time in the community to have meaningful conversations with community members about how to best approach the community. Developing an understanding of the challenges a community faces will help build trust.

Consider the possible household and social restrictions women may face for participating as well as “hidden costs” such as time-pressures since they may be expected to complete household chores and childrearing.
CBS volunteers (or local women’s groups) can share information with CBS program implementers about the financial, time, and other constraints affecting women in a specific community.
Ensure opportunities are given to both female and male volunteers. In particular, the quantity and quality of supervision for women and men should be equitable, and that both women and men should have sufficient opportunities for training and mentorship. In addition, women and men should receive the same compensation.