Gender Budgeting to Progress Gender+ Equality Through Primary Education

Abstract

Education is pivotal in the global effort to reduce inequalities. Through education, there are numerous opportunities to advance gender+ equality both within and outside of educational institutions. Gender budgeting, a strategy designed to align policies, plans and financial decisions with gender equality commitments, was used in this research to develop approaches through primary education. Research was conducted in collaboration with the biggest municipality in Iceland and three schools during the years 2019 and 2020, employing multiple data collection methods, including the review of policymaking documents and semi-structured interviews. Through qualitative content and thematic analysis, the research identified several opportunities to foster equality through primary education, categorised into four key themes: policymaking, curriculum, student participation and school–family relations. It is recommended that policy-based gender budgeting is implemented to prioritise actions that advance equality, social justice and equity within educational systems and broader society.