Enabling spaces like women-only forest groups and inclusive village committees help women become more confident and involved in managing forests and making decisions about them. In many places, women are deeply connected to forests for things like firewood, fruits, and medicinal plants, but they often have little say in how these resources are managed. When spaces are created where women can gather and discuss freely, they feel more comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns.

In women-only groups, women learn new skills, understand their rights, and gain leadership experience. This helps them speak up and influence decisions about how forests should be protected and how the benefits should be shared. Similarly, when village institutions ensure that women are included and heard, it brings balance to discussions and decisions, especially on issues that directly affect women’s daily lives.

Overall, these spaces give women the voice and confidence to participate actively, leading to better forest protection and fairer sharing of resources. It also helps the community by making forest management more inclusive and sustainable.

In addition, women-only forest user group and inclusive village committees promotes (a) payment of forest user group membership fees, (b)attendance of forest meetings, (c) create opportunities for women to voice their issues regarding forest use, (d) engage in decision-making over use and management of forest resources, and (e) women seeking leadership positions within the forest management committees.