Implementing GAP III in practice in EU Delegation in Mauritius

Capacity-building to integrating Gender Perspectives for Better Policies

On 7 April 2025, the European Union (EU) Delegation in Mauritius, in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, launched a three-day workshop to promote gender equality in policy-making. This initiative focuses on assisting public officials of Ministry of Gender Equality and Gender Focal Points of the Gender Cells of all line ministries integrate gender perspectives into policies and strategies, ensuring that gender equality becomes a key part of decision-making at all levels.

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Photo credit: Government Information Service (GIS), operating under the Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Mauritius

This workshop is an important step towards reducing gender gaps and achieving sustainable development in Mauritius and Rodrigues. It marks a significant milestone in Mauritius’s journey towards gender equality. By providing public officials with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need, this initiative lays the groundwork for more inclusive and effective policies.

Why Is This Workshop Important?

Gender equality is essential for building a fair and inclusive society. Policies that consider gender perspectives help address inequalities and create opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender. The workshop aims to assist policy-makers by providing guidance on developing gender-sensitive policies, aligning sectoral strategies with national gender goals, and establishing a network of Gender Focal Points in all line ministries. By focusing on these objectives, the workshop supports the Mauritian government’s efforts to integrate gender considerations into all decision-making processes.

Minister Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie presented a toolkit designed to help stakeholders incorporate gender perspectives into their work. This practical resource will guide users in creating policies that address gender issues effectively.

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Photo credit: Government Information Service (GIS), operating under the Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Mauritius

The Minister also announced plans for a Gender Information System. This system will provide reliable data to monitor progress and identify areas where more work is needed to achieve gender equality.

José Maria Troncoso-Perera, the EU Head of Cooperation to Mauritius, emphasised the importance of embedding gender equality at every level of governance, from local communities to national institutions. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Mauritius in this journey.

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Photo credit: Government Information Service (GIS), operating under the Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Mauritius

EU’s Commitment to Gender Equality

The EU has long been a champion of gender equality, both within its member states and in its partnerships with other countries. In Mauritius, the EU is working closely with the government and local organisations to promote gender-sensitive policies and practices. This workshop, an outcome of the annual Gender Policy Dialogue with Government, is just one example of the EU’s ongoing support for gender equality initiatives. Supporting the development of gender focal point systems is a concrete example of how the EU promotes a systematic integration of a gender perspective in external action. 

What Is the Role of Gender Focal Points?

Gender Focal Points structures is a common feature of organisations that want to ensure a systematic gender mainstreaming. Gender Focal Points are typically individuals who act as champions for gender equality within their organisations and communities with responsibilities such as :

- Promoting gender-sensitive practices in their workplaces.

- Ensuring that policies and programmes consider the needs of both women and men.

- Collaborating with other Gender Focal Points to share knowledge and best practices.

By forming a strong network, these Gender Focal Points can drive meaningful change and ensure that gender equality becomes a priority across all sectors.

Mr. José Maria Troncoso-Perera, EU Head of Cooperation, emphasized the critical importance of integrating a gender perspective at every level of governance. He highlighted that achieving gender equality requires both commitment and collaboration. 

"Gender mainstreaming is at the heart of our efforts," he stated, "and I am confident that, with your continued support and commitment, we will achieve a future where gender equality is a lived reality for all."