Unit information: Gender and Security in 2020/21

Unit name	Gender and Security
Unit code	POLI30032
Credit points	20
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Medie
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides an introduction to the concepts of gender and security and to how they are connected. It begins with an examination of key theories, concepts, and debates in gender studies, security studies, and feminist international relations and of how they are interconnected. The unit then draws on these theories, concepts, and debates to analyse gender and (in)security in the past and present. It analyses the causes and dynamics of women’s and men’s (in)security in varied geographical, political, and social contexts with a focus on the themes of gender-based violence, war, peacebuilding, the economy, human rights, the environment, health, women’s political participation, migration, and feminist methodologies.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of gender and security
• Demonstrate an understanding of how security is gendered
• Use gender as an analytical lens to study security
• Critically apply relevant theoretical and conceptual frameworks to historical and contemporary events and phenomena

Teaching Information

The unit will be taught through blended learning methods, including a mix of synchronous and asynchronous teaching activities

Assessment Information

1000 word analytical essay (25%)

3000 word essay (75%)

Both assessments assess all learning outcomes.

Reading and References

• Davies, E. and True, J. (2018). The Oxford Handbook of Women, Peace, and Security. New York: Oxford University Press.
• Gentry, C., Shepard, L. and Sjoberg, L. (2018). The Routledge Handbook of Women Gender and Security. London: Routledge.
• Rodriguez, C., Tsikata, D. and Adomako Ampofo, A. (2015). Transatlantic Feminisms: Women and Gender Studies in Africa and the Diaspora. London: Lexington Books.
• Tripp, A., Ferree, M. and Ewig, C. (2013). Gender, Violence and Human Security. New York: New York University Press.
• Tripp, A., Casimiro, I., Kwesiga, J. and Mungwa, A. (2009). African Women’s Movements: Transforming Political Landscapes. New York: Cambridge University.
• True, J. (2012). The Political Economy of Violence against Women. Oxford: Oxford University Press.