Mainstreaming gender in free trade agreements: Why it matters

Gender equality is a fundamental human right, yet it remains elusive for millions of women worldwide. Discrimination, unequal access to education and employment opportunities, and gender-based violence are just a few of the issues women face daily. One way to address these challenges is through trade agreements that aim to promote economic growth and development. However, free trade agreements (FTAs) have historically overlooked the impact of trade on gender equality.

This is where mainstreaming gender in FTAs comes in. Mainstreaming gender means taking into account the different experiences and impacts of trade on men and women. This approach recognizes that trade can have different effects on men and women, depending on their roles, responsibilities, and access to resources.

Mainstreaming gender in FTAs is essential for several reasons. First, it helps ensure that trade benefits women as well as men. For example, trade can create job opportunities, but women may face barriers to accessing these jobs, such as discrimination or lack of childcare. By addressing these barriers, trade agreements can help promote women`s economic empowerment and reduce gender inequalities.

Second, mainstreaming gender in FTAs helps to prevent negative effects on women. For instance, trade can lead to the loss of traditional livelihoods, such as farming or handicrafts, which can disproportionately affect women. By considering the impact of trade on women and addressing any negative effects, FTAs can help promote gender equality and prevent discrimination.

Third, mainstreaming gender in FTAs is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Target 5 of the SDGs aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. By mainstreaming gender in trade agreements, countries can contribute to achieving this target and promote inclusive economic growth.

Several countries have already taken steps to mainstream gender in their FTAs. For example, the Canadian government has been a leader in this area and has made gender a priority in all its trade negotiations. The newly signed Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) includes a chapter on gender and trade, which recognizes the importance of promoting gender equality in trade.

However, more needs to be done to ensure that gender is mainstreamed in all FTAs. This requires a shift in mindset and a willingness to consider the impact of trade on women as well as men. It also requires gathering data on the gender-specific impacts of trade and involving women`s organizations in trade negotiations.

In conclusion, mainstreaming gender in FTAs is an essential step towards achieving gender equality and inclusive economic growth. By recognizing the different experiences and impacts of trade on men and women, countries can ensure that trade benefits everyone. With more countries embracing this approach, we can move towards a world where gender equality is a reality for all.