Hello,
Things are going well here at the Ministerial Leadership Initative (MLI) in DC. It has been an entirely different and interesting experience for me to work with MLI, and I have been encouraged by the extent of their involvement with the ministries they work with. I think what is most unique about the program is that they do truly provide demand-driven support. All their activities have been tailored around gaps identified by the ministries themselves and have not been donor driven. It has been encouraging to see the extent of MLI's reach thus far. Given the program is in its last year of funding from Gates, we have been actively involved in the compiling documentation of the program's activities and impact. I thought I would highlight one of the Ministry-led activities MLI supported in this blog. I have cross-posted an event write up I recently did for the MLI blog on Ethiopia's Balancescore Card roll out. I hope you enjoy it!
The Balanced Scorecard (BSC) epitomizes strengthening health systems through strengthening governance. Rahel Gizaw, MLI Country Lead for Ethiopia, told the audience at the Global Health Council’s annual conference that the BSC strengthens Ethiopia’s Federal Ministry of Health through capturing performance measures, targets and initiatives. With more clarity, more can be accomplished. Read the rest at http://www.ministerial-leadership.org/events/rahel-gizaw-featured-panelist-ghc
-Swetha
Friday, July 22, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Placement at the World Economic Forum
My third week at the World Economic Forum in Geneva, Switzerland has begun, and I am settled into my work and my team. I am interning within the Special Constituents group, which focuses on engaging Civil Society Organizations (CSO), faith leaders (FL), as well as women leaders in the Forum's work.
My team is truly representative of the multinational nature of Geneva. Each of them speaks at least 3 languages, and come from a variety of countries. They all welcomed me warmly, and I feel as though I have been part of this group for years.
Regarding my role here at the Forum, I am currently assisting the managers of the CSO and FL constituents with a variety of tasks. First, I compiled a list of the top 50 most influential faith leaders, paying particular attention to women faith leaders given their under-representation in this area. More specifically, the Forum will be holding a Summit in India in November, and a number of faith leaders will be invited, including women faith leaders stemming from my and my supervisor's research.
I have also begun a mapping project for my CSO manager, which aims to identify gaps in relationships between the Forum and current CSO partners. The Forum is constantly searching for new NGOs to work with, and this summer I will be assisting in identifying these potential partners.
Toward the end of my internship, I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, under the supervision of the Director of the Special Constituents Group, Ms. Saadia Zahidi. The Global Gender Gap Report is an Index that ranks countries based on a variety of variables (such as the proportion of women in parliament, wage parity, etc), and acts as a benchmark for states to monitor and improve the status of women.
For more information about the report, and to find out how your country ranks in terms of gender parity, I encourage you to click on the cover below:
For the upcoming 2011 Report, the Gender team has sent out surveys to Ministries of Women's Affairs to provide additional value to the report. I will update this blog as we continue to receive completed surveys, and with any interesting developments at the Forum.
Take care!
Alexandra
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
"Women Enhancing Democracy" Conference at the Office of the President (Lithuania)
This past week was our big week! The Office of the President hosted the “Women Enhancing Democracy: Best Practices” conference, a high-level, high-profile summit on women’s leadership. It was hosted by Lithuania’s President Dalia Grybauskaite, and featured many female leaders from around the world, including Hillary Clinton, Tarja Halonen (President of Finland), Atifete Jahjaga (President of Kosovo), Solvita Aboltina (Speaker of the Parliament of Latvia), and others—as well as two CWWL staff members, Patricia Deyton and Heather McAuliffe, who were in town for the conference (CWWL was a sponsor of the event).
I have been working on this conference since I arrived in Lithuania
“Women Enhancing Democracy” was one piece of a three-day conference of the Community of Democracies, an intergovernmental organization of the world’s democracies. For the past two years, Lithuania
An interesting observation that I heard at the conference was: “We can’t fully achieve gender equality unless men are speaking to men about these issues. And not just any men – men who have power. Without their advocacy, we can only get halfway.” I noticed that Ria also wrote about this in one of her blog postings, “Men as Allies.” To me, this rings quite true. Without men as allies, how far can gender issues progress? I think this conference was an important step in the right direction, but there's still a long journey ahead.
An interesting observation that I heard at the conference was: “We can’t fully achieve gender equality unless men are speaking to men about these issues. And not just any men – men who have power. Without their advocacy, we can only get halfway.” I noticed that Ria also wrote about this in one of her blog postings, “Men as Allies.” To me, this rings quite true. Without men as allies, how far can gender issues progress? I think this conference was an important step in the right direction, but there's still a long journey ahead.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
The feminization of poverty
(Written Last Week)
I’m half way into week two here in Guyana and the laundry is adding up. The pile is getting higher and the mosquitoes have a thing for anything smelly. Not to mention almost two weeks, that’s just gross. Time to do some wash.
I took a trip across the street to ask my landlady about getting some laundry done. When I signed a rental agreement, I accepted the apartment without a washer or dryer. The landlady explained she’ll try to get a machine in the space, but until then my options are limited. She does, however, have a house keeper who takes care of her cleaning and laundry.
“If she just puts it in the washer and dryer I can handle that myself.”
“Washer?”
“Yeah, washer.” Wait, is washer some kinda slang here?
“ I don’t have a washer! She washes everything by hand”.
“Oh…Ohhh.”
“If she just puts it in the washer and dryer I can handle that myself.”
“Washer?”
“Yeah, washer.” Wait, is washer some kinda slang here?
“ I don’t have a washer! She washes everything by hand”.
“Oh…Ohhh.”
“Well, how much does she charge to wash clothes”
“I’ll have to ask her. It’s $1500 a day to clean my house and do the washing”
“I’ll have to ask her. It’s $1500 a day to clean my house and do the washing”
$1500. That’s about $7.50 in USD. $7.50 to clean an entire house (and it’s a reasonably sized house) and wash the laundry by hand. I can barely purchase a salad for $7.50 in the US. Another perspective- A two piece meal at KFC is $1100.
When was the last time I washed bath towels, t-shirts, or blazers by hand in one sitting? Let’s try never. The thought of so much work was overwhelming and really makes me realize how hard this woman works on a daily basis.
When was the last time I washed bath towels, t-shirts, or blazers by hand in one sitting? Let’s try never. The thought of so much work was overwhelming and really makes me realize how hard this woman works on a daily basis.
The next morning I placed my dirty clothes in a trash bag on the front porch as I was leaving for work. I met my landlady’s housekeeper. She introduced herself from a far, and when I locked the door, I walked over to shake her hand. She thanked me graciously for the work and explained it was her pleasure to help out.
Let’s go back to Women’s Studies 101. The feminization of poverty is a term used to describe the disproportionate rates at which women live in poverty compared to their male counterparts. Let’s apply that to a global perspective. Some women in Guyana marry at earlier ages than their American and European counter-parts, usually in their mid teens early twenties. Marrying earlier may mean less formal education and less earning potential. Less formal education means filling the need for service and labour based jobs such as housekeeping or nannies.
The topics we learn in school aren't just about politics. They are very much real and present in the lives of women everyday.
No one needs to see my dirty dirties. But for $7.50, I’d much rather invest in a local woman’s business than pay taxi fare and washing/drying machine fees at a laundry mat.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Taxi!
I usually take a taxi cab to and from my internship. The cost, round trip is about four US dollars. Hey, that’s cheaper than round trip on the bus in NYC!
My internship, the Ministry of Human Services, is located in the heart of (midtown) Georgetown. It’s a fifteen minute drive. In the final stretch, I pass through about half a mile of outdoor markets (produce, clothing, toiletries, and their vendors) to get to my office. Yesterday, I walked outside in search of a taxi home. They line the streets opposite side of the vendors and wait for customers- or call to them.
All the drivers (I saw) are men. They usually twirl umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun. Some men make cat calls, more specifically, noises that mimic sucking your teeth or a kissing sound. “Hey pretty gal, come in my car. And you can pay me”. I shake my head no. I’ve made it a habit not to speak unless necessary in the attempt to not give away the fact that I’m foreign. “Mama, where can I drive you?”. Another head shake. One gentleman yells “hey” and when I turn my head, he gives me a crude gesture that cannot be politely re-illustrated via this blog. Lovely. Now, had I been in the US, I would not have hesitated to share a middle finger or swear word. But, the reality is that I’m not in US. So, I suck it up and mimic the behavior of other local women: I ignore it.
I meticulously look for a yellow car marked taxi and walk pass the men who are drivers of unmarked vehicles (which later learn really means nothing in terms of safety).
After walking the strip, and turning onto another block, I find a “yellow taxi”. Although the guy next to him shades me with his umbrella and reaches for the door, I shake my head no and point to the “yellow taxi”. The owner gets off the hood, opens both of our doors, and begins to drive. “John Smith Street” I say in my obviously American accent. He repeats the street and begins to drive.
After about ten minutes he says “John Smith Street. You can direct me?” Oh. No. My internal monologue goes nuts: Why didn’t this man say he didn’t know where we were going? Why didn’t he ask me this ten minutes ago? This can’t be safe. Fortunately, I was able to give him directions. I’m very aware of my surroundings (thank you sincerely years of Girl Scouts navigation training) and pay close attention to make sure the driver follows my directions.
When we arrive to my gate he says “That will be $1,000”. No, it’s not. I’ve been here long enough to know it’s only $500. I want to say “Are you ripping me off because I’m a woman, because I’m foreign, or because I’m alone?” I’m suspicious it’s a little bit of everything. But, I don’t argue. I pay him.
“What’s this street named again?”
“John Smith Street” I say as I get out and slam the door.
My internship, the Ministry of Human Services, is located in the heart of (midtown) Georgetown. It’s a fifteen minute drive. In the final stretch, I pass through about half a mile of outdoor markets (produce, clothing, toiletries, and their vendors) to get to my office. Yesterday, I walked outside in search of a taxi home. They line the streets opposite side of the vendors and wait for customers- or call to them.
All the drivers (I saw) are men. They usually twirl umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun. Some men make cat calls, more specifically, noises that mimic sucking your teeth or a kissing sound. “Hey pretty gal, come in my car. And you can pay me”. I shake my head no. I’ve made it a habit not to speak unless necessary in the attempt to not give away the fact that I’m foreign. “Mama, where can I drive you?”. Another head shake. One gentleman yells “hey” and when I turn my head, he gives me a crude gesture that cannot be politely re-illustrated via this blog. Lovely. Now, had I been in the US, I would not have hesitated to share a middle finger or swear word. But, the reality is that I’m not in US. So, I suck it up and mimic the behavior of other local women: I ignore it.
I meticulously look for a yellow car marked taxi and walk pass the men who are drivers of unmarked vehicles (which later learn really means nothing in terms of safety).
After walking the strip, and turning onto another block, I find a “yellow taxi”. Although the guy next to him shades me with his umbrella and reaches for the door, I shake my head no and point to the “yellow taxi”. The owner gets off the hood, opens both of our doors, and begins to drive. “John Smith Street” I say in my obviously American accent. He repeats the street and begins to drive.
After about ten minutes he says “John Smith Street. You can direct me?” Oh. No. My internal monologue goes nuts: Why didn’t this man say he didn’t know where we were going? Why didn’t he ask me this ten minutes ago? This can’t be safe. Fortunately, I was able to give him directions. I’m very aware of my surroundings (thank you sincerely years of Girl Scouts navigation training) and pay close attention to make sure the driver follows my directions.
When we arrive to my gate he says “That will be $1,000”. No, it’s not. I’ve been here long enough to know it’s only $500. I want to say “Are you ripping me off because I’m a woman, because I’m foreign, or because I’m alone?” I’m suspicious it’s a little bit of everything. But, I don’t argue. I pay him.
“What’s this street named again?”
“John Smith Street” I say as I get out and slam the door.
Men as Allies
When I consider that my fellowship incorporates gender and public policy, it is only appropriate that I take some time to reflect on my experiences as a young woman in another country.
I had an opportunity to meet the Director of Public Policy at my internship, and soon learn that we’ll be sharing an office space. He introduced himself and explained that he’s been anticipating my arrival for some time. I explain that I recently graduated from Columbia while we are shaking hands and he begins to shake my hand even harder. “Wow, Columbia! We’re very lucky to have you with us.” I smile and say thanks (Go, Lions!).
My department (and future project) focuses on the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault. While talking to the Director, we casually run through our CV’s. He asks himself out loud “What else is there to say? Well, why did I go into this work?” and I reply “Probably the same reason I did”. We laugh and agree there is satisfaction in work when it helps others.
Later during an afternoon meeting, the topic of discussion is Guyana’s new public policy regarding sexual assault. One member explains why he believes the new legislation is “bad policy” and “doesn’t reflect the culture of Guyana”. He further explains that on the ground, this policy would put every other man in jail. I take time to realize the conversation has been dominated by men. The Director explains why he disagrees. His words echoed with me all day: “We always treat sexual assault as a women’s issue. But if the majority of abuse is committed by men, then it’s our issue too. It’s up to us, men, to end it.”
I wanted to yell “Amen, brethren!” I wanted to hug him for acknowledging his power and privilege; hi-five him for his commitment to being an ally to the women of his homeland…
I sat in my seat and nodded my head.
I want to take you home Mr. Director. I want you to use your dedication to rally men in the USA for this cause. But, there’s work to be done here- and by my impressions, you’re mighty good at it.
I had an opportunity to meet the Director of Public Policy at my internship, and soon learn that we’ll be sharing an office space. He introduced himself and explained that he’s been anticipating my arrival for some time. I explain that I recently graduated from Columbia while we are shaking hands and he begins to shake my hand even harder. “Wow, Columbia! We’re very lucky to have you with us.” I smile and say thanks (Go, Lions!).
My department (and future project) focuses on the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault. While talking to the Director, we casually run through our CV’s. He asks himself out loud “What else is there to say? Well, why did I go into this work?” and I reply “Probably the same reason I did”. We laugh and agree there is satisfaction in work when it helps others.
Later during an afternoon meeting, the topic of discussion is Guyana’s new public policy regarding sexual assault. One member explains why he believes the new legislation is “bad policy” and “doesn’t reflect the culture of Guyana”. He further explains that on the ground, this policy would put every other man in jail. I take time to realize the conversation has been dominated by men. The Director explains why he disagrees. His words echoed with me all day: “We always treat sexual assault as a women’s issue. But if the majority of abuse is committed by men, then it’s our issue too. It’s up to us, men, to end it.”
I wanted to yell “Amen, brethren!” I wanted to hug him for acknowledging his power and privilege; hi-five him for his commitment to being an ally to the women of his homeland…
I sat in my seat and nodded my head.
I want to take you home Mr. Director. I want you to use your dedication to rally men in the USA for this cause. But, there’s work to be done here- and by my impressions, you’re mighty good at it.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Gender Issues in South Africa
I am now into my third week of working with the FW De Klerk Foundation here in Cape Town, South Africa. Everyone at the office is incredibly warm and kind, and I have the utmost respect for what the Foundation is trying to do: support the Constitution and its foundation for a new South Africa, and support peace in multicultural societies. The Foundation accomplishes its mission in various ways such as monitoring socio-political developments that go against constitutional values (i.e. serve as a kind of government watchdog), publishing reports and papers opposing anything that is unconstitutional, helping people to understand and claim their rights through pro-bono legal assistance, etc.
The project I am currently focusing on is trying to understand the discrepancy between the rights of women as laid out in the Constitution and as seen through the near equal representation of women and men in Parliament, versus how women are actually treated "on the ground." While South Africa boasts equal rights, protection, freedoms, and representation for women in their laws and policies, it also has some of the highest rates of rape and other forms of violence against women in the world. My job is to better understand why this discrepancy exists, and to provide suggestions on how to improve the situation for women. There has been a plethora of research and papers written regarding this topic, so part of my challenge is to find the gaps and to add to, expand upon, challenge, or provide a different perspective on what already exists.
I have used the past couple of weeks to familiarize myself with the South Africa's history, people groups, cultures, and current events to get a sort of foothold for my project. I visit the National Library and my local library often to do research, and last week attended a briefing at Parliament by the Commission for Gender Equality regarding their strategic plans and budget. The briefing helped to get a better sense of how the government is addressing gender issues, and I was able to connect with a couple of committee members who I will hopefully be able to arrange meetings with.
Below are links to a couple of articles regarding violence against women and/or gender/sexuality issues in South Africa/Africa.
Article in today's NYT re: African women's soccer & homophobia:
Recent incidence of gender-based violence in a Cape Town township:
Article on corrective rape in South Africa:
The project I am currently focusing on is trying to understand the discrepancy between the rights of women as laid out in the Constitution and as seen through the near equal representation of women and men in Parliament, versus how women are actually treated "on the ground." While South Africa boasts equal rights, protection, freedoms, and representation for women in their laws and policies, it also has some of the highest rates of rape and other forms of violence against women in the world. My job is to better understand why this discrepancy exists, and to provide suggestions on how to improve the situation for women. There has been a plethora of research and papers written regarding this topic, so part of my challenge is to find the gaps and to add to, expand upon, challenge, or provide a different perspective on what already exists.
I have used the past couple of weeks to familiarize myself with the South Africa's history, people groups, cultures, and current events to get a sort of foothold for my project. I visit the National Library and my local library often to do research, and last week attended a briefing at Parliament by the Commission for Gender Equality regarding their strategic plans and budget. The briefing helped to get a better sense of how the government is addressing gender issues, and I was able to connect with a couple of committee members who I will hopefully be able to arrange meetings with.
Below are links to a couple of articles regarding violence against women and/or gender/sexuality issues in South Africa/Africa.
Article in today's NYT re: African women's soccer & homophobia:
Recent incidence of gender-based violence in a Cape Town township:
Article on corrective rape in South Africa:
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