Launch of the Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in Water Modelling Toolkit

Organisers: ICIMOD and CSIRO

Background

Water models play a pivotal role in decision-making processes for water resource development and management. However, traditional models often overlook critical social dimensions, such as gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI). This oversight can perpetuate disparities and biases in decision-making, limiting equitable access to water resources and services. To address this gap, The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) with support from Government of Australia collaboratively developed the GEDSI in Water Modelling Toolkit, a pioneering resource aimed at integrating GEDSI principles into water modelling workflows.

The development of this toolkit began with extensive research and consultations and included a comprehensive training program conducted on November 27–28, 2023, in Kathmandu. The training provided water resource professionals with tools and strategies to incorporate GEDSI principles into water modelling. Based on participant feedback and evolving needs, the toolkit was further refined and finalized. The toolkit is now ready for dissemination and application, marking a significant milestone in advancing inclusive and equitable water resource management.

Toolkit Highlights

Inclusive Modelling Framework: Offers a step-by-step guide to integrate GEDSI considerations into all stages of water modelling, from data collection to scenario development.

Case Studies and Examples: Features real-world applications, including insights from the Koshi and Murray Darling Basins, to illustrate the benefits of GEDSI integration.

Practical Tools: Includes templates and methodologies for GEDSI-disaggregated data collection, model calibration, validation, and solution identification.

Collaborative Design: Developed through a partnership between ICIMOD and CSIRO, with contributions from regional and international experts.

Capacity Building: Designed to support professionals in adopting GEDSI principles in practice, enhancing decision-making equity and inclusiveness.

Objectives of the Launch Event

Officially introduce the GEDSI in Water Modelling Toolkit to key stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners.

Highlight the importance of integrating GEDSI into water resource modelling and its potential to drive equitable and sustainable outcomes.

Motivate stakeholders to apply the toolkit in their work and contribute to more inclusive water management practices.

Agenda