Opportunities for gender transformative approaches in a community-based drowning reduction program in Bangladesh

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Public Health Interventions
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Community-based programs in low- and middle-income countries can drive social change and reduce gender inequities.
• The Anchal program in rural Bangladesh aimed to prevent drowning in children aged 1-5 years.
• It utilized community crèche-based supervision by trained, paid female volunteers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the Anchal program's influence on community gender norms and behaviors.
• To understand how these gender dynamics affected program delivery.
• To examine the impact on both men's and women's outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative methods including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.
• Observations were conducted with program beneficiaries and providers.
• Gender outcomes were analyzed using FHI 360's Gender Integration Framework.

Main Results:

• The Anchal program accommodated existing gender roles but did not actively challenge underlying beliefs.
• It improved female staff independence and community perceptions of women's roles.
• Gender norms constrained female staff engagement with male leaders and impacted program efficiency due to the dual burden of work.

Conclusions:

• The Anchal program both adapted to and shaped gender norms, demonstrating potential for gender transformative activities.
• Existing community relationships can be leveraged to advance gender equity.
• Health programs should address social determinants like gender equity to enhance sustainability and health outcomes.