Call for proposals: Intersectional Gender Policy in Latin America

Open call for proposals for policy-oriented research to support local governments in improving equity and gender equality, with particular focus on Colombia, Guatemala and Sweden.

Background

In the dynamic and complex socio-political landscapes of Latin America, the challenges of gender inequality intersect deeply with issues of growing economic inequality, social polarization and ethnic diversity. These challenges are further compounded in the lives of indigenous populations and Afro-descendant groups, who face unique barriers to equality due to a confluence of socioeconomic and ethnic marginalization.

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. Read more about the network here: https://icld.se/en/what-we-do/network/network-for-gender-equality/

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.

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.

Budget

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

Timeline

8 months from the signing of contract until deliverable submission. Applicants should provide a clear timeline with milestones.

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.

How to apply?

The researcher or research team should submit a proposal using ICLD’s system SBS Manager. The portal requires an account to be made by the main applicant. The account and portal will also be used for contract writing, reporting and other administration around the grant. Make sure to start the application procedure well in advance of the deadline, to leave room for any unclarities and need for support.

In the application you must attach:

• Proposal using the following template: Research proposal template.docx
• CVs of the main project members
• It is highly encouraged to upload a letter of support from the local government(s) and/or active organisations where fieldwork will take place. Please utilize existing contacts or ask us for contact persons for selected municipalities. Guatemala City and Panajachel have specifically stated their desire to participate.
• Letter of intent from the research institution confirming they can administer the grant

Deadline for application: 18 August 2024, 23:59 CEST

For questions about this call, please contact clara.orstadius@icld.se.