This briefing note discusses the key elements of the “gender in energy” topic and provides specific examples on “how to” integrate gender considerations in energy policy dialogue and the project cycle. It draws on recent experience within the World Bank and elsewhere in mainstreaming gender in energy projects.

In 2004, Bangladesh suffered one of the most devastating floods in its history. Considered the country’s worst-ever in terms of geographic extent and economic damage, the floods affected 39 districts, including Dhaka. Economic disruption and serious damages to infrastructure and other assets inflicted heavy losses on agricultural and industrial output and slowed down growth in services. The combined losses to assets and output climbed to at least $2.3 billion. Almost 36 million people were affected and the death toll reached nearly 800.

On 26 January 2001, an earthquake registering 6.9 on the Richter scale struck the Indian state of Gujarat. The 2-minute temblor was the worst to hit the state in the last half century. Punctuated by month-long aftershocks registering 3–6 on the Richter scale, it destroyed four Gujarat districts and affected another 21. The death toll rose to 20,000 and more than 200,000 persons were injured. Almost 2 million were left homeless, and no less than 20 million were affected.

The World Bank’s policy on cost recovery in irrigation projects some forty years ago was founded on the principles of economic efficiency, income distribution, and public savings. Over this extended period, however, it may be observed that the principles are virtually unchanged, while the terminologies became a little more complicated and refined.

Countries in the Asia and Pacific region are undergoing relatively rapid transitions from largely agrarian rural societies to increasingly urbanized communities. As Asian Development Bank and other development partners assist countries manage these transitions, rural development investments must adapt to the changing needs of both rural and urban communities.