The course "The Politics of Gender from a Global Perspective" aims to unveil and understand the essential role of gender in structuring politics on an international scale. Gender is more than a biological category or a personal identity; it is a fundamental element in understanding the mechanisms of power, governance structures, and decision-making processes that shape our societies. Gender is not merely an individual attribute but a prism through which power and authority are negotiated and exercised in international political arenas.
We will address essential questions: How does gender determine global political structures and institutions? What impact do gender policies have on governance and activism across different cultures and political systems? How does gender, in interaction with other identities and social factors, influence political decisions and actions?
Our analysis will focus on the role of women and feminist movements in political spheres, highlighting both the progress made and the obstacles encountered. We will assess policies of representation and respond to gender disparities in politics.
We will also tackle the issue of masculinities and how it influences and is influenced by global politics. The course will conclude with an exploration of anti-gender movements that have emerged as a significant cultural and political force.
These discussions will enrich our understanding of the power dynamics and resistance related to gender. Drawing on perspectives from political science, international relations, and feminist theory, our class discussions, critical readings, and case studies will help us deconstruct existing power structures and grasp the nuances of the interaction between gender and politics.
This course will provide a deep understanding of the influence of gender on global political processes while taking into account the diversity of gender expressions and counter-movements that are currently shaping the political landscape. It will engage students in critical dialogue to understand how gender continues to shape our political realities.
- Enseignant: Naima Bouras