A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1999

Since the early 80s, NGOs in Bangladesh, have launched their programs targeting towards the development of women and children. This has led NGOs to develop gender perspectives as a strategic approach in their policies and programs. This study was primarily intended to examine selected NGOs' policies and programs concerning gender and development both at the organisation and program beneficiary levels; and also to examine the effects of NGO program interventions in overall advancement of the women. It has been observed that big NGOs such as, BRAC and Proshika have declared policy on gender. Their gender policies focus on both beneficiaries and peoples working within the organisations. On the other hand, in the case of smaller NGOs like, Nijera Kori and BNPS, they do not have any declared gender policy. On the question of advancement of women because of NGO program interventions, it was revealed that that women beneficiaries of studied NGOs have benefited from various programs undertaken by these NGOs. These benefits were seen in context to practical gender needs, strategic gender interests and gender relations. It has been observed that the food intake of the NGO beneficiaries has increased considerably. The nutritional status has also improved. Women household members now get fairer share of the nutritious food contents of the daily meals. NGO beneficiaries now receive or avail of more healthcare services than before. Sanitation practice of the NGO beneficiaries has improved than before. Now almost all the NGO beneficiary households drink safe water. With respect to education, now the rural poor have more access to education. The condition of the dwelling houses of the beneficia1y households has registered improvement after NGO membership. Income level of the studied households has increased. It was observed that in the sphere of strategic interests marked development has taken place in the lives of the NGO beneficiaries. Now the NGO beneficiaries are more aware about their rights to property. In the area of rights to marriage and divorce they are now more aware. Regarding political rights, it was learnt that they now are also participating actively in the political process especially at the local level. Marital violence in the beneficiary households has reduced. In respect to control over bodies, it was observed that the NGO beneficiaries now have more control over their bodies. The decision making power of women have increased. At the community level decision making process, the participation of the NGO beneficiaries was observed to be insignificant. It has been observed that changes in the traditional roles of women are taking place.