In Tunisia, the traditional common rangelands governance system, which previously defined rangeland resting periods and access for user groups, has disappeared. This system used to help manage and preserve valuable resources, but has now been replaced by an “open access” regime which has resulted in uncontrolled cultivation and overgrazing. In response, new policies are being introduced to reverse these outcomes.
Recognizing a need to integrate gender more effectively within Tunisia’s rangeland projects and policies, ICARDA brought together multiple government institutions, local communities, and international actors last year – under the auspices of the CGIAR Research Program on Livestock – to design practical research tools (interviews and questionnaire) to guide research activities.
To better understand the needs of men and women in rangeland management and their recommendations for change, a study was conducted that involved both genders but also prioritized the involvement of women who are often assumed not to participate in rangeland management and are therefore routinely excluded from consultations and rangeland programs.