Gender issues, particularly in relation to women’s status and rights, occupy a prominent place in debates about aid and development. Law is often perceived to play a crucial role in shaping men’s and women’s social, economic and political opportunities, and is seen as both a barrier to women’s rights as well as a potential solution to gender inequality.

This course explores the relationship between gender, law and development, particularly in so-called 'developing' countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Pacific. It introduces a range of conceptual frameworks, which are explored through an examination of prominent aid and development issues, such as: 

• Rights to land and other natural resources;

• Family law;

• Gender based violence and violence against women;

• Employment and labour;

• Conflict and peace-building.

These thematic areas provide an opportunity for students to critically examine the presumed and actual relationship between international and domestic legal frameworks and gender inequality, as well as consider debates about the role and recognition of customary laws and institutions. Particular attention will be paid to the insights of postcolonial feminists and critical race theorists and the work of women of colour, including in relation to the importance of acknowledging the diverse ways in which feminisms may be expressed. 

This unit draws on the extensive scholarly and applied expertise in gender and development at the ANU and is designed to encourage student engagement and participation.