Intellectual and 'real world' feminism : mainstreaming international gender norms in the Republic of Ireland

Abstract

This thesis sets out to examine ‘gender mainstreaming’ as a scheme for the promotion of gender interests in mainstream policy-making. The thesis identifies gender mainstreaming as a development for feminist theory and practice. Specifically, it argues that ‘gender mainstreaming’ is a practical implication of feminist activity, with roots in feminist theory. As such, the thesis directly addresses the challenge that ‘intellectual and “real world” mainstreaming of gender are interrelated rather than parallel developments’ (Mazey, 2000; 334).