Advancing value chains through gender transformative approaches. Technical note

Global Food and Nutrition Security

This technical note guides policymakers and practitioners in conducting gender transformative analyses of agrifood value chains, with the aim of identifying root causes of gender-based constraints limiting women’s economic participation and resource access. Beginning with an introduction to the conceptual foundations of gender transformative approaches, the document provides an overview of FAO’s existing gender-sensitive value chain frameworks and defines key concepts and the rationale for using gender transformative methodologies. It then offers step-by-step guidance on integrating a gender transformative lens in value chain analysis, detailing processes for mapping core and extended value chains, identifying gender-based constraints, examining the enabling environment, and systematically diagnosing underlying causes and systemic issues. By identifying and analysing gender-based constraints and their root causes, stakeholders can strategically develop targeted value chain interventions, advocate for supportive policies and facilitate inclusive participation, ultimately ensuring sustainable and transformative improvements in gender equality and value chain performance.

Resources

Authors	Valerio, E.; Safa Barraza, A.;
Geographic coverage	Global
Available from	31 Mar 2026
Related organisation(s)	FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Knowledge service \| Metadata	Global Food and Nutrition Security \| Food economy Food systems transformation Gender-transformative approach Participation of women Womens' empowerment
Digital Europa Thesaurus (DET)	value chain gender equality

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