These 19 projects are presented as case studies in this publication. They are grouped into four main thematic areas, based on their sector of intervention: garment and textile, agriculture and natural resources (jute, rattan and forestry), energy and sustainable consumption.
Women account for a substantial proportion of the work- force in these sectors and represent a significant percentage of managers, entrepreneurs and owners of related SMEs. Their presence is, however, more abundant among lower level and less qualified positions, where women reportedly have limited education. In the case of women working in the natural resource sector, illiteracy rates remain noteworthy at 19% in Bangladesh, 25% in Vietnam and up to 50% in Cambodia and Laos. Many poorly educated women are lacking in self-confidence, which further restricts their ability for agency and change.
