Lost in Translation: The Impact of International Institutions’ Gender Norm Diffusion Practices on Post-Conflict States

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the impact of gender norm diffusion practices employed by international institutions on post-conflict states. This project uses constructivism and feminist institutionalism to explore how the United Nations (UN) diffuses gender norms through United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325. It investigates how through the promise of increased resource availability and enhanced state legitimacy; the UN has gained influence over the activities of both government and non-government actors. The purpose is to understand why post-conflict states adopt UNSCR 1325 National Action Plans despite barriers to implementation, how National Action Plans inhibit meaningful local translation of gender norms, and why the UN has failed to adopt the gender norm diffusion process despite limited progress. Outlining the implications of UNSCR 1325 and subsequent NAPs on post-conflict states, this thesis aims to explain why a ‘one-size-fits-all’ gender mainstreaming approach is insufficient to address global gender inequalities.