Intersectionality recognises that people's lives are shaped by their identities, relationships and social factors. These combine to create intersecting forms of privilege and oppression depending on a person’s context and existing power structures such as patriarchy, ableism, colonialism, imperialism, homophobia and racism. It is important to remember the transformative potential of intersectionality, which extends beyond merely a focus on the impact of intersecting identities.
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006) was the first UN instrument to recognise multiple and intersecting forms of inequality. 'Intersectional discrimination' was further defined in General Comment 6 on Equality and Non-Discrimination, and is increasingly referred to in other UN instruments.
Applying an intersectional lens helps to centre development efforts on those most marginalised, both within and across already marginalised groups, and is essential for achieving equal outcomes for all.
Resources in this section focus mainly on practical guidance on how to centre those most marginalised using an intersectional lens in development programs.
See also: Any topics relating to specific social identities e.g. gender, children, SOGIESC, etc.