Our research in this area seeks to understand transformations in social and cultural landscapes and gender identities in the Pacific, and what they mean for politics, security, and more inclusive development outcomes.

Subtopics within this program of research include:

Women’s leadership and political participation Across the Pacific, women continue to be grossly under-represented in decision-making at all levels. The degree to which women are under-represented in Pacific legislatures is more pronounced than anywhere else in the world, and finding ways to improve support for women to perform successfully in Pacific elections remains a major policy challenge. DPA scholars have generated a significant body of research concerning women’s leadership and political participation across the region, which has directly informed policy development. Through the PRP we are continuing to investigate women’s leadership at various levels and in a range of sectors to draw lessons for policymakers and program designers seeking to improve women’s leadership and participation in political processes throughout the Pacific.

Women’s economic empowerment

We are investigating the effectiveness and impact of various economic empowerment initiatives for women in the Pacific. Addressing women’s economic opportunities and agency in the context of other dimensions of their lives, including their familial situation, is crucial. Approaching the task of improving women’s economic opportunities and agency in isolation can limit the overall gains in this policy area. For example, our research has shown that women are increasingly responsible for income earning without any reduction in unpaid caring and household work. To be successful, interventions intended to enhance women’s economic inclusion and empowerment need to be well-informed and carefully planned, monitored and reviewed. Through our research we are working closely with development partners to collate and assess evidence regarding the constraints and enablers of women’s economic empowerment.

Ending violence against women and girls

Ending violence against women and girls is a vital developmental challenge for Pacific Island countries, with several country studies having documented high levels of violence against women. The problem is particularly acute in Melanesian countries. Responding to endemic levels of violence against women, many Pacific Island countries, in association with bilateral and multilateral partners, have embarked on legislative reform. Approaches to prevention, however, are less well-developed, and there is increasing recognition of the importance of community-based approaches to prevention. Through our research we are seeking to understand the drivers of violence and how to mitigate it.