A major reason that systems do not work for people is that discrimination and exclusion are baked into their design and execution, often unconsciously.
We believe that effective systems change requires a resolute focus on equality and inclusion – and needs to explicitly address discrimination and barriers on the basis of gender, class, race/caste/ethnicity, sexual identity, disability, and other markers of exclusion.
Co-Impact’s goal is to transform large-scale systems in health, education, and economic opportunity, resulting in improved outcomes for millions of people. We envisage a world where all women, men, and children can reach their full potential irrespective of the circumstances of their birth. This can only be achieved if we address “gender systems” – the underlying norms, laws, practices, sanctions, and decision-making processes that lead to systematic barriers and persistent discrimination against women and girls – as well as create opportunities and supports for women and girls to exercise leadership, voice, agency, and power.
At Co-Impact, we support all of our program partners to apply an intersectional lens, focusing particularly on gendered systems and the intersections with other forms of discrimination – such as race and class –and addressing this in the following areas of their work:
- Problem Analysis
- Program Design
- Outcomes Definition
- Measurement
- Leadership
- Organizational Strengthening
- Internal Principles, Processes, and Products
For more detail on our approach see: Co-Impact Approach to Gender Equality and Intersectionality
Co-Impact’s Gender Fund is focused on transformative systems change, with an emphasis on elevating women’s power, agency, and leadership at all levels.
