Doing gender and development: understanding empowerment and local gender relations

Sharp, J. , Briggs, J., Yacoub, H. and Hamed, N. (2003) Doing gender and development: understanding empowerment and local gender relations. Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers, 28(3), pp. 281-295. (doi: 10.1111/1475-5661.00093)

Abstract

A major dilemma in Gender and Development (GAD) work is why it is that sometimes women may feel better off colluding with gendered structures that ensure their continued subordination rather than seeking approaches that will allow them to break free of this. Kandiyoti (1988 Gender and Society 2 274-90) has identified this apparent collusion as 'patriarchal bargains', which offer women greater advantages than they perceive can be achieved by challenging the prevailing order. Such women are therefore reluctant to engage in empowering activities that may challenge their gendered bargain. This paper explains this dilemma in the context of GAD work undertaken with Bedouin women in Southern Egypt.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Briggs, Professor John and Sharp, Professor Jo
• Authors: Sharp, J., Briggs, J., Yacoub, H., and Hamed, N.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Geographical and Earth Sciences
• Journal Name: Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers
• Publisher: Blackwell Publishing
• ISSN: 0020-2754
• ISSN (Online): 1475-5661
• Published Online: 21 August 2003
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2003 Blackwell Publishing
• First Published: First published in Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers 28(3) 281 - 295
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the Publisher.