The fourth UN world conference held in Beijing in 1995 established that gender mainstreaming in development programmes and policies is a critical component towards achieving gender equality and improving the lives of women and girls across the globe. At this juncture, it is important to clarify that gender is not just about women as is often perceived. However, gender equality efforts are often focused on women as they have consistently faced high levels of discrimination across societies.
According to UN Women, gender equality therefore refers to the deeply embedded inequalities and imbalances between men and women worldwide due to concepts such as gender norms and gender roles. Gender mainstreaming seeks to positively transform societies to increase participation of women and ensure their equal rights across all aspects of life.
So what does it entail?
Gender mainstreaming is about a transformation change in both programming and within institutions. It entails implementation of global commitments and foresees a systematic and holistic approach, as well as integration of gender-focused principles and practices into policies, programmes and strategies.
Below is how to integrate gender mainstreaming in development programmes.
1. Conduct a gender analysis
Gender analysis involves carrying out an assessment to understand what issues and challenges exist that affect both men and women. The analysis should address such questions as How do these issues differ across contexts?, What are the unique challenges faced by men and women?, and Why are these issues different for the two genders?
A gender analysis helps identify gender constraints and opportunities, and collect and analyse data disaggregated by sex.
2.Design the programme
Using findings from your gender analysis, start designing the programme by identifying areas of priority and the scope of work. Programme design involves defining the programme goals, objectives, indicators, and activities. To achieve gender mainstreaming, this phase entails an integration of gender considerations identified through gender analysis across the entire design process.
3. Allocate resources
Ensure the planning and allocation of sufficient resources if gender disparities are to be addressed effectively. Budgetary allocations are imperative to effective implementation. Some of the costs may need to be allocated towards supporting policy reviews or hiring a gender expert to oversee the implementation.
4. Implement the programme
This stage is about rolling up the sleeves and getting the work done. The project team should be briefed about their roles and responsibilities, including gender considerations. Establishing and maintaining partnerships with relevant stakeholders/partners which may include women’s rights organisations is important to successful implementation.
5. Monitor and evaluate
Continuous monitoring throughout the project helps build an evidence base which will in turn inform strategic decision-making around gender equality. The data generated enhances accountability and provides insights on the achievement of programme or project goals and impact.
In a nutshell, gender mainstreaming helps identify the often deeply rooted gender stereotypes across contexts and societies, and contributes to the necessary shifts in gender norms.
Next steps?
Consider regularly reviewing and adapting gender mainstreaming subject strategies based on feedback from staff, and other stakeholders to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. You can achieve this by developing reports on progress made, challenges and accomplishments and sharing this with stakeholders for learning purposes.
Contributor: Priscilla Wahome, Development & Gender Specialist
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