CIDOB notes internacionals 269. MARZO 2022 provides insights into the development and challenges of feminist foreign policies (FFPs) adopted by several countries over the past decade. Initially met with skepticism and resistance, particularly after Russia's annexation of Crimea and its territorial incursions, FFPs have gained traction as more nations, including Sweden, Canada, France, Luxembourg, Mexico, and Spain, have incorporated gender equality principles into their foreign policy frameworks.
The main points to highlight from this document are:
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Evolution of Feminist Foreign Policies: A growing number of states have introduced elements of feminism into their foreign policies, which traditionally focused on promoting women's rights and gender equality within international relations. This shift signifies a re-politicization of gender equality discourse globally.
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Intersecting Structures of Oppression: The approach now emphasizes intersectionality, addressing not only gender but also race, class, and sexual orientation in the face of traditional state-centric security concerns and national interests. This multidimensional perspective challenges the limitations of liberal feminism that merely promotes women's inclusion in leadership roles and the labor market.
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Challenges and Contradictions: Despite the ambitious discourse, there is a fragmented and contradictory implementation of these policies. They must navigate a complex landscape where state interests and security definitions often clash with feminist values. The document questions whether these policies truly aim to eliminate gender inequality or merely serve economic interests under the guise of feminism.
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Definition and Ambiguity: The term 'feminist foreign policy' lacks a concrete definition, leading to varied interpretations, ambitions, and priorities among countries such as Sweden, Spain, Mexico, France, and Canada. These policies generally focus on gender mainstreaming, women's participation in diplomacy and international relations, economic empowerment of women, and advocacy for women's rights and protection against gender-based violence.
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Existing Commitments and International Agreements: The policies are built upon existing international commitments for gender equality, including conventions like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Beijing Platform for Action on Gender Equality, and UN Security Council Resolution 1325. While supporting these agreements, the policies might struggle to achieve transformative change in an internationally militarized system marked by realpolitik.
In conclusion, while FFPs represent a significant step towards integrating gender perspectives in foreign policy, they face numerous challenges in translating rhetoric into meaningful action and ensuring substantial progress in reducing gender inequality and promoting women's rights globally.
