Gender mainstreaming as a buzzword: the ups and downs of a concept

Alison E. Woodward

Chapter Spotlight 3 in Research Handbook on Gender Mainstreaming, 2026, pp 67-70 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Although gender mainstreaming was intellectually the logical next step after equal opportunities and affirmative action, the very fact that it was intellectual held part of its danger. Many feared that moving from designated women's policy machinery to a transversal gender equality approach would lead to a giant disappearing act. Amazingly, the policy approach was broadly adopted. Some fears of the feminist pessimists proved justified. Achieving the transformational powers of mainstreaming gender across the board called for a truly revolutionary and resource-demanding policy apparatus. Gender mainstreaming was an idea whose time had come for a world not quite ready to apply resources to achieve it.

Keywords: Gender Mainstreaming; Policy; European Union; Gender Equality Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035353415
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