Operating Policy on Women in Development


Link to PDF version of this Policy

The Women in Development Operating Policy is intended as a further step in reinforcing Bank-supported, beneficiary-oriented policies and projects. It recognizes that development is a process that must fully involve both men and women. It endeavors to identify key areas and the means by which women's more active participation and greater access to benefits could be enhanced.

Higher productivity of all women as part of the general project population signifies a more efficient use of resources invested and greater project success. At the same time, taking the disadvantaged position of women in the lower-income strata and their increasing economic responsibilities for the upkeep of their families into account, this policy pays attention to supporting activities that address their needs in both rural and urban areas.

Such a policy is by its very nature multisectoral. It includes directly productive activities as well as those related to training and institutional organization, stressing elements to be pursued within the general framework of normal Bank operations in the various sectors as appropriate.

In May of 2005, the Women in Development Unit (SDS/WID) changed its name to Gender Equality in Development (SDS/GED). This change will be reflected in the revision of the 1987 Women in Development Policy that will generate an updated policy that focuses on promoting gender equality. This conceptual approach will also guide the development of the IDB Strategic Framework on Gender.

Last updated: 01/16/07