This discussion paper was developed by, and is the result of, a collaboration between WaterAid, Christian Blind Mission (CBM) Australia and Di Kilsby Consulting. It is based on reflections on applying integrated gender and disability advisory support to rights-based water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programs in Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea.
The paper is intended as a conversation starter for WASH program managers and other development practitioners looking to strengthen their conceptual and practical understanding of challenges and successes in integrating gender and disability in WASH. It is also for those looking to move towards more transformative and sustainable practice.
Preliminary recommendations are provided, however, this is not intended to be a comprehensive practice note. The paper also draws upon insights shared by two senior WaterAid Timor-Leste managers, Ms Getrudis Mau and Mr Alex Grumbley, who were interviewed for this paper. Due to staff turnover, it was not possible to interview staff from WaterAid Papua New Guinea.
