Issues and Perspectives of Sustainable Development and Gender

from the viewpoint of sustainable livelihood approach

Abstract

  For this paper, the author first reviewed previous research conducted on environment and gender in the context of development assistance, gender mainstreaming, and gender gaps in terms of resource management. An analysis on sustainable development in a local community was conducted using the sustainable livelihood approach, which is often referenced in, and applied to, social development. The author further analyzed issues on sustainable development in terms of gender mainstreaming and financial inclusion by introducing some international trends relating to financial inclusion and correcting gender inequality. Finally, the author proposes future perspectives for education in the area of sustainable development. The sustainable livelihood approach categorizes livelihoods into five capitals: human, social, natural, physical, and financial. This approach helps to organize the factors that constrain or enhance livelihood opportunities, as well as to understand any relationships that may exist between each capital. The approach places emphasis on the importance of maintaining a balance among the five capitals in order to ensure sustainable livelihoods. Financial capital, however, has been identified as one area where there exists significant gender imbalance, especially in terms of women’s access to and the utilization of financial resources. Financial inclusion, “All shall have access to financial services,” is of significant importance to be solved and can help to achieve sustainable development goals. Gender equality plays a key role in achieving this. Focused education on financial capitals and financial inclusion are indispensable and should be available. Well-developed education for women including subjects such as how to use financial services like account management, asset management, starting a new business, and so on, to name a few, is expected. In conclusion, there should be a greater focus on financial resources management in order to realize and promote gender mainstreaming and sustainable development. Education on financial inclusion, especially for women, is needed in the future.