Political economy is a branch of social science that studies the relationships between individuals and societies, the market and the state. By utilizing political economy analytical tools and methodologies it is possible to have a better understanding of existing power relations in a society and the reasons why energy policies do not address gender considerations in their mandates. In addition, political economy can provide guidance for remediating gender gaps at policy and program levels.

At a moment when the international community has agreed to work towards achieving new development pathways through the pursuit of the SDGs, with the goal of achieving universal access to modern energy sources and gender equality by 2030, and the generation of social, environmental and economic [co]benefits from mitigation initiatives, it becomes imperative to understand how progress in the energy sector can address gender equality–in this case through the implementation of women-centered clean energy projects.

The webinar will be moderated by Ana Rojas, IUCN GGO, and will include the following presentations:

- Political economy and gender mainstreaming in the energy sector, Andrew Barnet, The Policy Practice
- Gender equality, women’s rights and access to energy services, Katrine Danielsen, Royal Tropical Institute
Women’s bargaining power and its implications for the energy sector,
- Dev Nathan, Visiting Professor, Institute for Human Development & Visiting Research Fellow, Duke University