The History of Nepalese Forest Management and the Roles of Women

A contextual insight is offered into the history of Nepalese forestry management with reference to women. First, the chapter provides insight into the importance of forest resources for Nepalese people. It reflects how different sections of the population (economically poor, economically well off, men, women, urban dwellers, village dwellers) use forests for various purposes. It also illustrates the existence of two-way relationships between people and forests and the involvement and contribution of people in the maintenance of state forest resources in Nepal. This section concludes that the people living closest to Nepal’s forests, usually in remote and rural areas of the country, have a greater dependency on forest resources. Within these communities, women and economically disadvantaged individuals rely most heavily on forests. It is therefore important to include these groups in decision-making and planning regarding forestry policy, processes and outcomes to ensure that resources are managed sustainably.