Abstract
Simi Mehta, Vibhuti Patel and Satyam Tripathi, Advocating a Feminist Foreign Policy for India (New Delhi: Impact and Policy Research Institute, 2023), 72 pp.
This compact yet profoundly significant study argues that, in recent years, there has been a discernible global trend towards integrating a feminist viewpoint into various facets of policy formulation, policy execution and policy analysis. This transition in approach has been embraced by numerous countries, with momentum building after 2014, when Sweden notably adopted the framework of a Feminist Foreign Policy (FFP) in its political practices (Aggestam et al, 2019). Sweden, though, despite its pioneering role in championing FFP, recently made the decision to abandon this approach under a new right-wing government (p. iii). This raises questions about who and where are progressive developments now when it comes to FFP.
The book is dedicated to three remarkable individuals as role models. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit (1900–1990) holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as President of the United Nations General Assembly in 1953–54. Hansa Mehta (1897–1995) was a member of India’s Constituent Assembly and also represented India at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1947 to 1952. Chonira Belliappa Muthamma (1924–2009), the first woman to pass the Indian Civil Service Examinations, became later the first female Indian Foreign Service Officer and a prominent diplomat and Ambassador, fighting for gender equality in the Indian Civil Services.
Structured into three sections, this study first delves into the historical intricacies of feminist foreign policies on a global scale, subsequently narrowing its focus to the context of India. The book’s final section engages with contemporary debates and dialogues surrounding feminist foreign policies.
The basic premise of FFP, which is gradually gaining more recognition due to the efforts of transnational feminist solidarity in peace-making, peacebuilding and peacekeeping, emphasises the representation of women in foreign policy decision-making, development assistance for women’s empowerment and addressing gender-related vulnerabilities in the context of transnational security. The authors argue that FFP should have three primary goals, often referred to as the ‘three Rs’, focused on rights, representation and resources. The rights focus involves promoting women’s issues, including countering gender-based violence and discrimination. In terms of representation, FFP aims to support women’s participation at all levels of decision-making, from political offices to private sector boards and the legal system. It strongly recognises the importance of women’s voices in shaping foreign policy. This is not only as victims whose stories should be listened to and taken seriously (Aggestam, 2019: 27; Enloe, 2017). Rather, gender-sensitive postmodern approaches to foreign and security policies are increasingly realising the importance of taking account of ethics, rather than just operating male-dominated laws as somewhat value-free rules and processes. Regarding resources, FFP advocates equitable allocation of resources among people of all genders, whether in government budgets or development projects. This includes ensuring that resources are directed toward initiatives that promote gender equality (p. 5).
FFP as a strategic approach acknowledges that gender equality is not just a women’s issue but a fundamental aspect of achieving peace, security and sustainable development goals (p. 6). In the context of international relations, FFP challenges the traditionally masculine perspectives that dominate the field. FFP recognises that foreign policy cannot remain untouched by these gendered power dynamics. Intersectionality, thus, is a crucial concept in FFP, acknowledging that multiple forms of discrimination intersect and influence women’s experiences.
Regarding FFP in the context of India’s national interests and strategic thinking, the authors highlight the challenges of gender equality. They cite statistics on crimes against women and India’s low ranking in the Global Gender Gap Report (p. 16), showing that violence against women remains a significant issue in India. Exploring how FFP aligns with India’s national interests, the authors suggest that these have evolved over time, influenced by shifting global power dynamics, geostrategic and regional challenges, exemplified by India’s earlier and continuing tradition of non-alignment and strategic autonomy, which allow the country to pursue its interests independently.
The role of gender-sensitive values in India’s foreign policy is depicted as rooted in India’s civilisational heritage. The authors mention female historical figures like Rishi Gargi, the influence of ancient Indian philosophies and the impact of normative values such as tolerance and non-violence in shaping India’s foreign policy (pp. 20–3). They argue that, relying on such historical evidence India should lead by example and actively promote FFP principles in its international engagements. This section concludes with a discussion of India’s role in UN Security Council reforms and the need for greater representation of women in decision-making processes (p. 25). It suggests that India’s commitment to reform and gender equality can have a positive impact on multilateral institutions.
FFP also has a significant place in highlighting the role of women in the peace and security landscape. Women’s collaborative approach to peacebuilding and their unique vantage point in recognising signs of impending conflicts are highlighted when the authors discuss the role of women in violence prevention efforts at the local level, a point recognised at the international level and in various UN Resolutions (pp. 29–30). India’s ongoing support for the role of women in diplomacy and international relations is highlighted by the recent appointment of Sneha Dubey as India’s First Secretary at the United Nations, challenging stereotypes about women’s leadership in diplomacy (p. 32).
The study also emphasises the importance of women’s participation in transboundary water diplomacy and climate change, highlighting women’s positive impact on the lasting implementation of agreements. Initiatives like the Women in Water Diplomacy Network, aimed at improving gender equality in high-level decision-making related to shared waters, demonstrate the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, particularly in vulnerable and remote regions. The authors emphasise the need for gender-responsive strategies in addressing climate change, including promoting female labour force participation in green jobs and ensuring better access to clean energy.
The study also rightly stresses the importance of historical, cultural and socio-political aspects when adopting FFP, emphasising that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. Some countries have incorporated gender equality as a central objective, demonstrating a commitment to eradicating poverty, promoting health and enhancing security for women and girls globally (pp. 41–2). The authors underscore the need for India, as a central power in South Asia, to embrace a similar approach to solidify its position in the region while advancing women’s rights and agency. However, there is a need for India to adopt forms of FFP that align with its unique cultural and contemporary context, both nationally and on the global stage.
The authors thus underscore the diversity within feminist movements and highlight the varied interpretations of feminism. They emphasise that FFP goes beyond policies solely focused on women and instead adopt a non-binary approach aimed at challenging and disrupting male-dominated power structures across different spheres of influence. This perspective offers a transformative view of foreign policy, challenging traditional gender norms and advocating gender equality as a crucial element in international relations. The authors have made a valuable contribution to the field of foreign policy and this book is recommended as essential reading for academics, students and experts alike.