Tools of the trade: feminist governance in the field

The practice of feminist governance around the world is underpinned by normative frameworks expressed in conventions, declarations and other standard-setting instruments, at global, regional and national levels. While this work often encapsulates an aspirational end point, tools such as handbooks and self-assessment guides help to translate global norms into practical guidance that enables achievable change at national level. We write this chapter as authors of various handbooks and tools that have been used by practitioners in the field of women’s political participation and leadership. We engage in constructive discussions with ‘critical friends’ about the use of these tools, and their overall effectiveness in the pursuit of gender equality. We find that feminist governance tools are the products of those who develop them, and those who use them, and that there is considerable scope to increase both of these pools. We see opportunities for stronger collaboration between academics and practitioners; between experts in the Global North and South; and with end-users.