LocationsThe tradition of hunting concessions has been strengthened in Kazakhstan. Over 70 percent of the country’s territory, which makes about 2 million sq km are identified as hunting lands. To date, there are more than 700 hunting farms across the country, that focus on conservation of biodiversity, keep record of the wild animals, develop eco-tourism and recreation. The hunting сoncessions employ 4,000 employees, including 114 women, who work in various positions, taking an active part in wildlife conservation issues.
However, the representation of women in decision-making positions related to the protection of wildlife is still low. Among the 100 hunting сoncessions of Kazakhstan, only seven of them are headed by women, including Aelita Akhmetsalimkyzy and Lyudmila Glushkova.
The United Nations Development Programme within the framework of the project of the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), pays special attention to the issues of gender equality and the representation of women at the leadership level in the field of wildlife management. An active participation of women in the management of natural resources offers opportunities to preserve and enhance the country's biodiversity.
