Applications of Mainstreaming in Australia and Northern Ireland

Abstract

Mainstreaming is a concept which describes the consideration of gender and other equity group impacts at every stage of the policy process. While the concept is endorsed and supported by a range of supranational bodies, international organizations, and national governments, very little is known about its applied impact. This article contributes to the mainstreaming literature by exploring two applied mainstreaming case studies. Through the measurement of political will, resource allocation, and methods of enforcement, Australia and Northern Ireland’s mainstreaming strategies are analyzed, with conclusions drawn regarding their application processes and the impacts these have delivered.