Women's empowerment

7 keys to understanding it from a gender perspective

Abstract

The concept of empowerment has been widely used in different fields –mainly in international development, from organisations such as the United Nations– so that, since its emergence, it has varied and adopted very different approaches. Due to its interchangeable use with other concepts, its close relationship with power, and its variation according to the socio-political context, it has often been misused, leading to ambivalence and contradictions. However, recognising women’s empowerment as an objective for equality and development is essential, which requires an appropriate use of the concept that correctly orients the actions that promote it. This article provides an approach to the foundations that support women’s empowerment from a gender perspective. It begins with a brief review of its background and definition. Moreover, it explores different feminist consensus and contributions, identifying seven fundamental keys to understanding it: 1) It involves talking about power and the relational, social and structural dynamics that are formed around it; 2) It implies analysing and deconstructing socialisation and patriarchal structures; 3) It is a slow, long and complex process of change that arises from within each person; 4) The importance of the intersectional approach; 5) Its multi-level character –individual and collective–; 6) It is multidimensional –personal, social, economic and political–; 7) It has to do with men. All things considered, the article advocates a critical and reflective look at empowerment, emphasising the need to address these fundamental keys to its correct application.