Gender Mainstreaming

Straight to Gender Equality … or Heading for Trouble??

Today’s presentation

The concept of gender mainstreamingWhat’s the difference between gender

mainstreaming and gender equalityThe purpose of gender mainstreaming Problems relating to gender

mainstreamingRecommendations

Gender Mainstreaming experience

Gender mainstreaming of adult educationDissemination of the strategyGender mainstreaming of labour market

projects in Eastern EuropeEqual projects: Gender mainstreaming of

vocational and educational guidance

Definition

"Gender mainstreaming is the (re)organisation, improvement, development and evaluation of policy processes, so that a gender equality perspective is incorporated in all policies at all levels and at all stages, by the actors normally involved in policy-making" (p.8).

What makes gender mainstreaming different from ’traditional’ gender

equality work?

Gender Mainstreaming is not about ensuring that all decisions are ”good for women” .

Gender Mainstreaming is focused on both men and women.

Gender Mainstreaming is to be a part of everyday work.

The purpose of Gender mainstreaming

To make gender differences and inequalities on a structural level visible

To combat discrimination due to genderTo prevent exclusion based on gender

differencesTo include men and women equally everywhere,

in a way that makes both genders feel comfortable

To ensure better quality in work and better quality of life for both men and women

The foundation of the strategy in Denmark

The act on Gender Equality part 3 (4):

”Public authorities shall within their respective areas of responsibility seek to promote gender equality and incorporate gender equality in all planning and administration”

Problems related to Gender Mainstreaming

An ”empty” strategyProblem definition and diagnosisThe question of powerReproduction of stereotype gender

conceptions

Gender-division of Danish nurses

010

2030

4050

6070

8090

100

Women Men

3D-søjle 1Vest3D-søjle 3

What’s a male nurse anyway?

Recommendations

1) Define and discuss the equality problem you want to work with. Discuss alternative diagnoses of the problem at hand

2) Define what you mean by gender equality3) Who will help you and who will fight you?

How are you going make your enemies join you?

4) Avoid stereotypes by seeking diversity