In the course we will discuss the broad field of gender studies and the central issues, key concepts and analytical tools in the current debates regarding inequalities, diversities and social change relevant for sustainability.

The course draws on global, regional and local empirical examples to illustrate issues of how gender and sustainability interact. We will analyse similarities, differences and interactions between gender studies, feminism (from liberal to radical to postmodern feminism) and sustainability, in terms of their theoretical foundations.

Moreover, we will analyse different approaches (such as intersectionality) that help identify and locate gender and make gender dimensions visible in sustainability policies, initiatives and interventions and how they relate to wider social processes and sustainability challenges.

Finally, we will analyse how methods (such as standpoint and mainstreaming), methodology and epistemology can be used to problematise and critically review everyday examples of the interaction between gender and sustainability.

In the seminars we will practice peer teaching. The students will analyse and present literature themselves and lead the discussions.