The gender equality and diversity gap in the transport sector : could the GaDAP-tool help and push systematic implementation?

Abstract: Gender equality and diversity (Ge&D) perspectives in the transport sector have been neglected within scientific research and policymaking processes for a significant time. Gender is somewhat considered, meanwhile diversity is seldom taken into account. According to researchers, the problem with the Ge&D gap is that the implementation phase is lacking, i.e., to go from policy to action. For this reason, a tool called GaDAP has been newly developed to help with strategic and systematic implementation of both Ge&D perspectives. With this background, this thesis aims to test, analyze, and evaluate the potential of how the GaDAP-tool can affect the development of systematic implementation of Ge&D perspectives. This is conducted as a case study in Västerås municipality where qualitative methods such as workshops and semi-structured interviews have been used. The theoretical framework consists of implementation theory, as well as gender and diversity mainstreaming. It is highlighted in the findings, analysis, and discussions that implementation of Ge&D perspectives are challenging within the transport field. Challenges such as knowledge gaps, lack of local political directives, and institutional barriers, negatively affect a systematic implementation. Although, some potential and possibilities were seen. First, the participants show a willingness to implement Ge&D perspectives. Secondly, the GaDAP-tool proved to be helpful to increase knowledge of the subject. Conclusions that are made show that the GaDAP-tool could push systematic Ge&D implementation, however, only to a certain extent. There are still several challenges to deal with before reaching a planning process with systematically implemented Ge&D perspectives.