This publication presents the outcomes of an APEC project that addressed skills and capacity gaps in gender-responsive agricultural programs.

The project began with Background Research, drawing on a cross-economy online survey and community-level research in Thailand. The findings showed that women play active roles across agricultural value chains but still face barriers to resources and leadership. They also revealed gaps in monitoring systems needed to track progress and support program improvement. These gaps informed the design of a two-day Technical Cooperation Workshop.

The workshop generated shared learning on gender-responsive program design, practical tools for monitoring and evaluation, and policy and program recommendations to strengthen SDG 5–related agricultural initiatives. These recommendations emphasize inclusive design, flexible monitoring systems, and the need to address structural and hidden inequalities.

Together, the research and workshop show how evidence-based, locally adapted approaches can turn policy commitments into practical action for women’s leadership and inclusive agriculture.