Question

What kind of policies are advocated for as part of political empowerment?

• A. Gender-responsive policies.
• B. Protectionist trade policies.
• C. Monetary policy reforms.
• D. Fiscal stimulus packages.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Gender-responsive policies.

Understanding Gender-Responsive Policies in Political Empowerment

• Core Concept: Gender-responsive policies are designed to address the different needs, priorities, and capacities of women, men, and people of diverse gender identities, aiming for equitable outcomes.

• Political Empowerment Focus: In the context of political empowerment, these policies seek to increase the participation of marginalized genders in decision-making processes at all levels of governance.

• Key Objectives:

  • Ensuring equal representation in political bodies (e.g., legislatures, local governments).

  • Promoting women's leadership and political participation.

  • Addressing structural barriers that hinder political engagement of certain genders.

  • Integrating gender perspectives into policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation.

• Relevance to Competitive Exams: Understanding gender-responsive policies is crucial for sections on governance, social justice, and development models, particularly relevant to topics like the Kerala Model of Development, which emphasizes social justice and equitable development.

• Examples of Gender-Responsive Policies:

  • Quotas or reservations for women in local self-government bodies (like Panchayati Raj Institutions in India).

  • Special measures to support women's candidacies and political campaigns.

  • Training programs for women in leadership and public speaking.

  • Legal reforms to ensure equal rights and opportunities in the political sphere.

  • Budgeting that considers the differential impact of public spending on various genders.