Participatory Ladder Mapping as a Research Tool in Intersectional Feminist Political Ecology

This article explores participatory ladder mapping as an innovative research tool in intersectional feminist political ecology research. It shows how participatory ladder mapping could be used to analyze the depth and diversity of stakeholder involvement across different decision-making contexts. By examining various levels of engagement, from manipulation to citizen control, the article provides insights into how various groups, particularly women, take part in natural resource management decisions in Ghana. Drawing on case studies from the Ashanti, Central, and Savannah regions, the analysis highlights how gendered participation unfolds across diverse socioecological contexts. The article also critically assesses the strengths and limitations of participatory ladder mapping in capturing these complex dynamics. This type of mapping allows for a detailed understanding of participation by highlighting areas where gender equity is substantively addressed or undermined, but it also reveals limitations in addressing systemic power imbalances that restrict women’s agency. Overall, the article shows that when thoughtfully applied, participatory ladder mapping holds significant potential for advancing inclusivity by finding gaps in gender equity and offering pathways for more representative governance structures within natural resource management and decision-making processes.