Translating the feminist theory of intersectionality into gender analytical frameworks for gender and development

The growing popularity of intersectionality theory, the critiques levelled against it and its use in gender and development (GAD) warrant a critical reflection by feminists, especially those working with less affluent women. This article examines the stretching of intersectionality in GAD research, policymaking and practice, and shows how it has been depoliticised into becoming a ‘catch-all’ term that can be used by all feminists as a shorthand for explaining differences within the category of ‘women’. The particular focus here is on the gender analytical frameworks that are generally based on a binary understanding of gender and used in the development industry, generally by liberal feminists. Finally, and as a corrective, the article explores the possibilities of an ‘intersectionality-informed’ approach to gender analyses.