June 2009, The World Bank: World Bank: Oil, Gas, and Mining Policy Division
It has become recognized in recent years that the effectiveness and sustainability of EI operations are dependent not only on the commercial viability of the company but also on a social license to operate, and on a positive relationship between government, EI operators, and the community. Women have a key role in creating this social license, and in facilitating the social and economic development of their communities. Thus, understanding and consideration of how women and men are uniquely impacted by EI – on the part of EI companies, governments, and donors – can increase the effectiveness and sustainability of EI operations.
Despite the ample evidence of gender bias – and its implications – in EI, there is significant scope for increasing the gender focus of most EI projects in the World Bank. Analyzing and adapting projects to local gender issues can help to mitigate the risks created by EI, and amplify the potential benefits to both men and women, leading to increased profitability and more sustainable development impacts. Furthermore, understanding and adapting projects to improve gender sensitivity is essential to realizing the Bank’s stated commitment to both mainstreaming gender and to the third Millennium Development Goal of gender equality and empowerment of women.
