From “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment” to Global Justice: Reclaiming a Transformative Agenda for Gender and Development

Main author: Cornwall, Andrea
Other authors: Rivas, Althea-Maria
Format: Journal Article           
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id eprints-29974
recordtype eprints
institution SOAS, University of London
collection SOAS Research Online
language English
language_search English
description The language of “gender equality” and “women’s empowerment” was mobilised by feminists in the 1980s and 1990s as a way of getting women’s rights onto the international development agenda. Their efforts can be declared a resounding success. The international development industry has fully embraced these terms. From international NGOs to donor governments to multilateral agencies, the language of “gender equality” and “women’s empowerment” is a pervasive presence and takes pride of place amongst their major development priorities. And yet, this article argues, the fact that these terms have been eviscerated of conceptual and political bite compromises their use as the primary frame through which to demand rights and justice. Critically examining the trajectories of these terms in development, the article suggests that if the promise of the post/2015 agenda is to deliver on gender justice, new frames are needed that can connect with and contribute to a broader movement for global justice.
format Journal Article
author Cornwall, Andrea
author_facet Cornwall, Andrea
Rivas, Althea-Maria
authorStr Cornwall, Andrea
author_letter Cornwall, Andrea
author2 Rivas, Althea-Maria
author2Str Rivas, Althea-Maria
title From “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment” to Global Justice: Reclaiming a Transformative Agenda for Gender and Development
publisher Taylor and Francis
publishDate 2015
url https://eprints.soas.ac.uk/29974/