Feminism in International Relations
Feminism in International Relations
Feminism in International Relations (IR) is a critical theory that challenges traditional IR approaches by highlighting how gender dynamics, especially the experiences and roles of women, shape global politics. Feminist scholars argue that mainstream IR theories, such as realism and liberalism, have been largely developed from a male-centric perspective, often ignoring or marginalizing women’s experiences, contributions, and perspectives in the international sphere.
Key Contributions of Feminism in IR:
- Challenging Gendered Power Structures: Feminist IR theorists emphasize that international relations are deeply influenced by gendered power structures that privilege men and masculinities, particularly in areas like security, war, and diplomacy. These structures often reproduce gender inequalities, where men are the primary actors in statecraft and military affairs, while women’s roles are minimized or overlooked.
- The Concept of Gendered Security: Feminists in IR challenge traditional notions of security that focus on military threats and state-centric concerns. They argue for a more inclusive view of security that takes into account the experiences of women in conflict zones, where issues like sexual violence, human trafficking, and economic insecurity are prevalent. Feminist scholars advocate for the human security framework, which shifts the focus from state security to the safety and well-being of individuals, particularly women and marginalized groups.
Intersectionality: Feminist IR theory often incorporates an intersectional approach, recognizing that gender inequality intersects with other forms of oppression, such as race, class, sexuality, and colonial histories. This helps to understand how global systems of power a
