Season 3 of Branching Out: the forest podcast features the work of IUFRO’s ForGEDI Task Force, focusing on gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in forest-related sectors.
In this episode, host Gerda Wolfrum (IUFRO) and co-host Bashir Isiya (International Forestry Students’ Association) speak with Task Force co-leads Todora Rogelja (University of Padova) and Rattiya Lippe (Thuenen Institute of Forestry). The discussion explores how entrenched power structures shape access to forest resources and participation in decision-making.
Speakers stress that women, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and youth often play key roles in forest stewardship, yet remain underrepresented in governance processes. According to Rogelja, excluding these perspectives leads to incomplete and less effective policies that risk reinforcing inequalities.
The episode also highlights practical examples of change. Lippe points to successful initiatives, including case studies showcasing women’s leadership in forest management, such as an Indonesian example that increased women’s participation in decision-making processes.
Beyond representation, the discussion emphasises the need for structural transformation in the forest sector to ensure meaningful participation. GEDI is presented not as an add-on, but as a prerequisite for effective, legitimate, and resilient governance systems. The episode also introduces the ForGEDI Massive Open Online Course, ongoing research activities, and future initiatives, including a planned photo exhibition at the 2029 IUFRO World Congress.
The key message is clear: achieving sustainable forest management in a context of global crises requires governance systems that reflect the diversity of those who depend on and care for forests.
Tune in to Branching Out: the forest podcast! Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to follow the series!
