Norwegian efforts on gender equality - equal rights and opportunities
Norad seeks to advance equal rights, opportunities and influence for women and men in society. By means of Norwegian development aid, Norad backs measures that protect women and girls from violence, expand access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, open up opportunities for education and employment, and encourage participation in political and economic decision-making. Priority is given to countries and regions where gender inequalities are most pronounced.
Norwegian efforts on gender equality
Norwegian development cooperation on gender equality includes, among other things, support to political participation, economic independence, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and the fight against gender-based violence.
Efforts to enhance political participation seeks to reduce barriers to women’s participation and strengthen their influence, for instance by supporting voter participation and women’s organisations.
To increase women’s economic independence, Norway supports measures that promote women’s access to education, work, social safety nets and economic resources, as well as support for organisations and legal reforms that secure equal rights.
The fight against gender-based violence includes both prevention and support for survivors through health services, legal assistance and psychosocial support. Support to local women’s organisations is also an important part of this work.
Finally, Norway supports efforts to secure access to contraception, safe abortion, sexuality education, safe pregnancies and childbirth, and prevention and treatment of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. This also includes strengthening health systems so that primary health care provides inclusive and comprehensive SRHR services for all, especially young people and vulnerable groups such as LGBTI+ persons.
Global efforts with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa
Norway’s efforts on SRHR support work and programmes across the world, with a particular focus on countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and countries affected by humanitarian crises.
It is a priority to support national and local civil society organisations led by women and young people. It is also a priority to help strengthen the capacity of national authorities.
Who does Norad cooperate with on gender equality?
To achieve lasting results, Norad collaborates with a wide range of partners.
Key partners include multilateral organisations such as the UN, development banks, civil society organisations, local civil society organisations and women-led groups.
Norad also supports national authorities in developing and implementing non-discriminatory legislation and policies, as part of a broad and integrated approach to gender equality.
A strategic use of Norwegian aid resources
Norway’s efforts on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights are organised as a portfolio. Portfolio management is intended to ensure knowledge-based and strategic use of Norwegian development funding, in order to achieve the goals of Norwegian development policy. Read more about how Norad works with portfolio management.