Call for Proposals: Intersectional Gender Policy in Latin America

Many local governments around the world are taking the lead in actively working towards gender equality, and there are many conducive initiatives in Latin America. ICLD is establishing a network of municipal partnerships in Guatemala, Colombia and Sweden on this topic and the present call for research should provide knowledge for coordinated action for measures accessible at the local level, to address the gender inequality trap from an intersectional perspective, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of inequality that transcends gender to encompass ethnicity, class, and more. The aim is not only to address the specific contexts of Colombia and Guatemala but also to inform broader applications, including regions with ethnic minorities or indigenous populations such as the five national minorities in Sweden, including the Sami in Northern Sweden, through the development of culturally sensitive, equitable, and effective gender equality policy.

Scope

• This research initiative aims to explore the intersectionality of gender with other forms of marginalization, how local governments can address gender equality in a holistic manner, and provide recommendations to local governments and other actors promoting equality and equity within the framework of decentralized democracy. The research and the research team shall provide knowledge support to the ICLD network of municipalities.
• Potential research questions may include:
  • How do gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status intersect to shape the experiences and opportunities of participatory local governance of indigenous populations and Afro descendants in Colombia, Guatemala, and similar contexts in Latin America and beyond?
  • In what ways can decentralized governance be optimized to enhance the development and implementation of equitable gender equality policies?
  • How can participatory governance methods by local governments be employed and mainstreamed to ensure marginalised communities have a significant role in shaping gender policies that affect their lives?
• ICLD encourages the use of participatory methodologies such as Participatory Action Research and Community-Based Participatory Research.
• In addition, the research should map out at least 20 innovative policies and practices implemented by local governments to break unequal social norms and practices. The studies policies should go beyond quotas and women empowerment programs and special attention should be given to initiatives aimed to eradicate sexist social norms and cultural practices that limit the possibility for gender equality. Study can include policies from around the globe and relate them to major global protocols, but special focus should be given to Latin America, particularly to Colombia and Guatemala where ICLD is establishing a network of local government for gender equality.

Funding Information

• Up to 400.000 SEK including personnel, operational cost of fieldwork and dissemination activity, translation of deliverables, and overhead (maximum 20%).

Deliverables

• The projects shall produce:
  • A detailed Research Report according to ICLD guidelines that articulates the findings and provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.
  • A concise Policy Brief according to ICLD guidelines aimed at translating complex research findings into practical guidance for the development and implementation of inclusive gender policies.
  • A toolbox or pedagogical repository of inspiring policies for gender equality.
  • Please see ICLD’s previous publications for examples of research reports and policy briefs. Additionally, the project team must commit to organise a dissemination activity online, and be proactive in identifying and leveraging opportunities for knowledge dissemination in meetings of the ICLD network and other relevant fora.
  • The deliverables shall be translated to exist in both English and Spanish.

Who can apply?

• Applicants must be affiliated with an accredited research institution, which is to channel and administer the funds. The principal investigator must hold a PhD degree in a relevant field and be proficient in English and Spanish. Communication with ICLD is done in English.

For more information, visit ICLD.