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Progress for Women Is Progress for All

Review of international development policy in Scotland - February 2008

The new Scottish Government is reviewing the method of allocation of its international aid and sought comments from organisations across Scotland on how its priorities should be determined. UNIFEM UK has submitted a response through its branch in Edinburgh.

UNIFEM in Edinburgh welcomed the opportunity to comment on the Scottish Government’s international development policy review and was encouraged by the announcement of increased funding, whilst recognising that primary responsibility for international development policy lies with Westminster. The allocation of funds for project work promotes closer links and understanding between Scottish society and other communities worldwide. This can contribute to improving the lives of those who come to live in Scotland too and services provided in the country can benefit from knowledge gained in other countries.

In its submission UNIFEM in Edinburgh said:-

Given the continuing disproportionate impact of poverty on women worldwide, and the continuing unacceptable experience of violence against women, particularly in conflict and post-conflict situations, we believe that international development and aid policies should reflect a gendered approach.

The current thematic focus of the policy on education, health and civil governance issues connects well with the devolved responsibilities of the Scottish Government and we can learn from some of the experience to date. UNIFEM would encourage a review of how the work in each area could better reflect the differential impact on women. Support for education amongst girls and programmes which target the health of women and children bring benefits to the whole of society. UNIFEM takes a particular interest in building sustainable communities and empowering women. We would encourage this approach in the work funded through the Scottish Government’s International Development Fund.

UNIFEM itself supports a range of different projects around the world and we do not see any great benefit in retaining the current narrow focus of Scottish international development policy on sub-Saharan Africa. The financial aid available for projects is small, as we are all aware, and the greatest benefits will come from targeted intervention and development of twinning arrangements. Aid can also play a role in allowing statutory and voluntary agencies in Scotland to learn how to better deliver services appropriate to the needs of increasingly diverse communities living in Scotland. More attention needs to be paid to language and cultural differences and barriers.

UNIFEM in Edinburgh looks forward to further discussions on the policy review and believes that the process of selecting projects for support from the International Development Fund should be transparent and inclusive. It will encourage the Scottish Government to link up with work already being supported by agencies, groups and communities across Scotland.

If you live in Scotland and would like to find out more about UNIFEM activities, please contact the Edinburgh branch

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The projects undertaken by UNIFEM make a difference to the everyday lives of women around and their families around the world. UNIFEM UK needs your support to help fund this work and to raise awareness of the issues affecting women's rights and security.