Intersectionality in participatory methodologies: systematic review and evaluation framework

Purpose This systematic review examines how an intersectional perspective is integrated into participatory methodologies and what it contributes when applied from the outset of the research process. Design/methodology/approach Forty-six studies (2018–2024), identified through systematic searches in regional and international databases, were analyzed. Deductive–inductive coding was guided by seven dimensions: (1) social demand for research, (2) participation in definition of the problem, (3) epistemological plurality in conceptualization, (4) population and territorial heterogeneity, (5) redistribution of epistemic power, (6) relationality and (7) affectivity, situated reflexivity and decentralization of the universal subject. A complementary content analysis enabled the derivation and operationalization of eleven criteria that capture the benefits of integrating an intersectional perspective into participatory methodologies for researchers, professionals and participants. Findings The results reveal uneven integration of these dimensions: social demand and co-definition of the problem are frequent, while epistemological plurality and territorial adaptability appear less often. Methodological families demonstrating a stronger intersectional orientation show a higher concentration of benefits. An evaluative framework of intersectional coherence and a checklist of twenty-one indicators (across the seven dimensions) are proposed to support the planning, monitoring and comparison of participatory research. These tools can be applied both in research development and in policy formulation or organizational practice. Originality/value The product presented in this paper makes applied intersectionality auditable and guides practices with transformative potential in contexts of inequality.