Navigating Intersectionality - An Intersectional Analysis of Policy Documents of Dutch and German Universities
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2024-07-09
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en
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Although scholars recognize the potential of intersectionality to enhance policymaking and implementation, the extent to which academic institutions in various countries incorporate intersectionality into their policies remains largely unexamined. Previous studies have predominantly focused on the application of intersectionality in research or its effects on students and staff, rather than its use in developing gender equality policies that highlight individuals' lived experiences with intersecting social realities. To address this gap, a qualitative content analysis was conducted on the gender equality plans (GEP) and diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) strategy plans from a Dutch and a German university. The study reveals that while these documents profess to adopt an intersectional approach and occasionally mention intersecting diversity dimensions, they often fall short of fully integrating this perspective. Gender is frequently treated as a binary construct, and diversity discourse sometimes glosses over inequalities or reinforces narratives that lead to othering practices. As a result, intersecting identities are inadequately addressed, perpetuating inequality regimes within universities and producing policy documents that overlook the varied lived experiences of individuals with intersecting diversity dimensions, ultimately reinforcing these inequalities.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen