Season 2: Ep 13 - Do we need a Feminist Foreign Policy?

What is Foreign Policy? How can it be Feminist? Does it only work for one sex or can it work for everybody? How do the states and institutions which claim to be the proponents of feminist foreign policy ensure it is ethical and inclusive?

Climate Change Journalist Sharlene Gandhi and I examine how feminist foreign policy can be a tool to reshape our conventional thinking: from balancing production and climate change, to the delicacy of trade relations, to the significance of women’s participation in global peace talks, and everything in between. Using Canada and Sweden as examples, we look at the positives and negatives of feminist foreign policies. We also critique how capitalistic ideals have pushed for women’s economic independence without their participation or feedback, or regard for their cultural livelihoods, health and safety, or their children’s well-being.

We advocate an intersectional approach to foreign policy which has regard to the historical structural power relations as well as gender inequality, and one that continually adapts the narrative in line with the world’s rapidly-changing priorities.