Implementing the feminist development policy of the BMZ

Context

Gender equality is vital to achieving all of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Societies are only stable and peaceful if everyone can participate equally. In the framework of its feminist development policy, Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is therefore a strong advocate for equal participation by all people.

In the past, the causes of gender inequality and discrimination were often not taken into consideration in the design of development measures. Bringing about change in terms of gender norms also requires an approach in which policies are shaped jointly by government and society.

Objective

Innovative feminist approaches have been piloted in partner countries, and the lessons learned are transparent and can be widely applied.

Approach

The programme works with local partners to jointly implement BMZ’s feminist development policy in an exemplary manner in Armenia, Colombia, Rwanda and Tunisia. It supports and promotes existing feminist strategies in each country in order to encourage cooperation between governmental and civil society stakeholders on this issue and to increase the knowledge available about effective methods.

In Armenia, the focus is on preventing gender-based violence and developing methods to collect data on gender equality.

In Colombia, the programme is concentrating on the link between peace, climate change and feminism. It is connecting (feminist) organisations and/or institutions with regard to these topics.

In Tunisia, the programme is working on approaches which dismantle gender hierarchies and gender exclusion, with a focus on renewable energy and good governance. For example, it brings together women from the energy industry.

In Rwanda, the programme also implements innovative projects which promote good governance, collect data on gender equality, and prevent gender-based violence.

Last update: August 2024