Gender networking and advocacy work in Uganda: Controlling the agenda and strategies of resistance

Abstract

Relations between donors and national NGOs undertaking gender advocacy are very complex. The same is true of relations between the advocacy networks, their member NGOs, and women at the grassroots. This study draws on research carried out by the author for her doctorate. The research considers advocacy to promote gender equality, and shows how this activity both affects, and is shaped by, the power relationships among the various actors involved. It examines the relationships between various actors in Uganda who have an interest in advocacy on gender issues: donors, international and local NGOs, and members of grassroots communities. Both donors and national NGOs accept that there is a need for advocacy, to raise the profile of key gender issues and to try to influence policy and practice. However, they have different motives for doing this work, and their agendas may diverge from each other at times. Ultimately this affects the quality of the work that they do to represent the interests of Ugandan women.