HYDEA has carried out an in-depth analysis of gender equality in the cultural and artistic sector, in the framework of the regional project for the development of cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in the Indian Ocean region, that is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). The assignment has been implemented for, and in collaboration with, the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC).
A consultation of more than 150 artists and cultural operators from the Union of the Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique and the Seychelles, as well as representatives of public institutions, highlighted the inequalities between countries and the obstacles faced by women.
The analysis revealed inequalities linked to cultural contexts and gender-based divisions of labour in the CCIs. The main difficulties faced by women in exercising their art and skills are:
– Harassment
– Lack of access to training
– Restricted mobility
Yet women’s contribution to CCIs is significant in economic terms. They also play a crucial role in the transmission of cultural heritage.
Priority areas for gender equality:
To ensure the full participation of women and meet Sustainable Development Goal 5 by 2030 “to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”, the IOC will focus on three priority areas:
- Inclusion and representation
- Economic empowerment of women
- Struggle against gender-based violence
These priorities will be reflected in all the ICC project’s activities, particularly in the calls for projects and mobility grants. And with good reason: the ICC project is as much a cultural project as it is a project to promote inclusiveness and gender equality.
