About Gender & Diversity Studies

In Gender Studies at WUR we especially focus on the gender aspects in the domains of food, agriculture, rural societies and rural environments, while being sensitive to how the gender dimension intersects with other dimensions. As scientists, we work on advancing the development of gender studies knowledge and theory. From an interdisciplinary perspective we look at processes as well as outcomes by studying historical roots, critically analyzing current situations and proposing possible lines for development.

Focus of Gender & Diversity Studies at Wageningen Unoversity & Research
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In Gender & Diversity Studies at WUR we especially focus on the gender aspects in the domains of food, agriculture, rural societies and rural environments, while addressing as well how the gender dimension intersects with dimensions of race / ethnicity, class /wealth, religion, age/generation, locality, health status etc. As interdisciplinary domain we look at both processes as well as outcomes by studying historical roots, critically analyzing current situations and propose possible lines for development.  Important areas of research and teaching are for instance gender and land rights, gender based management of bio-diversity and natural resources, gender in organic farming, women’s roles as food producers and consumers, gender-based effects of agricultural and rural development policies, feminization of agriculture, and gender in population control and environmental sustainability. As scientists, we are concerned with advancing the development of gender & diversity studies knowledge and theory. But we also want to make sure that knowledge and insight on gender issues is disseminated as widely as possible and that not only our fellow scientists are reached. Through our collaboration with organizations and scientists engaged in development arenas we try to reach the women and men at the grassroots level who could put that knowledge into practice. Another relevant role that we perform is actively advise policymakers on the integration of gender issues into their policies. As a result, policies become more effective and efficient and contribute to the realization of gender equality goals. All these efforts are grounded in our scientific expertise and empirical research and the research of our students.