ETHICS, GENDER AND DEVELOPMEMENT
Sr No:
Page No:
20-27
Language:
English
Authors:
Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Received:
2025-07-28
Accepted:
2025-08-21
Published Date:
2025-08-25
Abstract:
This research investigates the critical intersection of ethics, gender, and development, aiming to understand how ethically
grounded, gender-sensitive approaches can lead to more just and sustainable development outcomes. Despite decades of global
development efforts, many projects have historically neglected ethical principles and gender equality, resulting in limited impact,
unintended harm, and the reinforcement of patriarchal structures. There remains a lack of cohesive frameworks that fully integrate
feminist ethics and core ethical principles into mainstream development planning and evaluation.
The study employs a critical literature review methodology, analyzing peer-reviewed academic journals, policy reports from
international development organizations, and key theoretical texts. It is grounded in feminist theory, the capability approach, and
global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 on gender equality. The research identifies
that development projects lacking ethical grounding often exacerbate existing inequalities. A feminist ethic, especially one rooted in
care and justice, is shown to be instrumental in addressing systemic gender-based disparities. Furthermore, gender-sensitive projects
that integrate ethical frameworks demonstrate more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable outcomes. However, there is a persistent
challenge in effectively measuring long-term impacts on gender equality and sustainability. Embedding ethical principles and feminist
perspectives into development is not optional it is essential for achieving meaningful, transformative change. This study concludes that
ethically guided, gender-responsive development can empower marginalized groups, particularly women, and foster inclusive social
and environmental progress. It calls for robust accountability mechanisms, participatory evaluation tools, and continued advocacy to
ensure development efforts do not perpetuate injustice but rather dismantle it.
Keywords:
Ethics in development, Gender equality and development, Feminist ethic of care, Sustainable development goals (SDGs), Gender mainstreaming, Gender-sensitive development, Capability approach, Social justice and development, Women's empowerment, Participatory action research, Intersectionality.