Promoting equality between women and men in bilateral development cooperation : concepts, goals, rationales and institutional arrangements. Part one. Theory, practice and priorities for change

Gender equality has been on the development cooperation agenda for more than three decades. Bilateral agencies have developed policies, strategies, methodologies and tools. This study looks at what has been achieved after the Fourth United Nations Conference on Women in Beijing at the level of policy development and in practical interventions. It highlights some of the main areas needing attention if gender equality is to become a central issue in development cooperation in the future.

Part One presents the historical development of attention to gender equality in development cooperation at global level through the United Nations system, and outlines the development of policy rationales and strategies within bilateral agenciesBased on empiricla findings three key areas where greater clarityis required are identified- concepts, goals and rationales and institutional development within bilateral agencies themselves. The importance of strengthening women’s voice, giving greater attention to gender relations and bringing in more men as allies, and establishing greater political commitment to mainstreaming women’s empowerment and the necessary institutional changes for gender equality are highighted in the conclusions.