Courting kleptocracy - Part II: Implementation

In my previous blog, I spoke about the translation of kleptocracy and used a case study of a fictional market vendor I called Mary to understand the nuances of not only women in politics but as functioning members of society.

So now, back to the Five Principles of Feminist Governance. And Mary.

1. Gender Targets

Setting [achievable] targets underpin the success of any goal. When you set a target, you inadvertently end up setting up a plan to achieve that goal. That plan is then divided up into achievable time-frames by which to achieve that goal. Basically a virtual start and finish line.

Read more here, about the importance of gendered targets and why it is important to set realistic ones so we know we are not setting ourselves up to fail.

In the case study of Mary, I will use an example of building a road through her town. By ensuring there are gendered targets like: How many women were consulted during the planning stage?, or How many women-run businesses are based along x-kilometres of the road my project will be building?; I am ensuring I capture evidence that women are also being positively impacted by the development I am bringing to her town.

Setting realistic gendered targets ensures in whatever work you are doing, you are bringing along everyone with you - not just the men, but the Mary's too.

2. The beauty of persistent incrementalism.

In the nuanced society we live in, that 'glass ceiling' is almost multi-layered, if you will. We do not just have counterparts to contend with; we have our cultures, our patriarchy.

Therefore finding 'male champions' and working with them is vital. Mary can (and should) speak for herself but finding men who support your project is particularly important when you will be working in patriarchal societies.

Bringing everyone along ensures your work is heard and seen. Ostracizing one part of society, for example, excluding the men, is the most sure-fire way to hurt your work before it even gets off the ground.

3. Prioritizing and training women leaders.

This is a no-brainer. My blog here explains why.

And when you train the women, like Mary, train them to reach back for their fellow women. Teach them to go ahead to make things easier who those who come behind.

4. Maximizing independence through women moving millions.

We all know politics is hard for women and is particularly obvious here in our own country. See here. Half the battle is raising the funding to contest, whilst the other half is convincing your voter base that you will be an authoritative representative of their needs.