Gender Equality Plan

Preamble

As a globally active organisation based in Berlin, Connexus International gGmbH is committed to empowering marginalised communities and fostering inclusivity.

Guided by the principles outlined in its charter, Connexus International recognises humanity’s interconnectedness, the importance of historical responsibility, and the need for cultural and intellectual exchange. This Gender Equality Plan reflects our dedication to promoting equality, combating discrimination, and advancing international understanding in all our endeavours.

This Plan aligns with global frameworks such as the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality, and the European Union’s Horizon Europe Gender Equality Guidelines. It draws inspiration from UN Women’s directives on gender-responsive policies and incorporates principles from the European Commission’s approach to Gender Equality Plans (2021).

1. Dedicated Resources

Connexus International will allocate specific budget lines for implementing gender equality initiatives through its directly executed projects, research, and partners. The organisation will maintain a gender mainstreaming expert to ensure that gender equality principles are effectively integrated across all projects and organisational processes.

This expert should also collaborate with local partners and relevant programme stakeholders to bring diverse expertise and drive the implementation of the Gender Equality Plan as a pillar for research, collaboration, and grantmaking.

2. Data Collection and Monitoring

Implementation

Connexus will systematically collect and analyse sex/gender-disaggregated data across personnel, participants, and stakeholders. This will include data on recruitment, promotions, and participation in activities.

Annual Reporting

Key performance indicators (KPIs) will be continuously developed and improved to monitor progress. Our Annual Report should provide specific information about the gender-related KPIs, and the progression around the achievement of the SDG5, outlining achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. This process aligns with Horizon Europe’s emphasis on evidence-based policy development.

3. Training

Awareness-Raising

Training sessions will be conducted for all staff, leadership, and volunteers, as well as on-ground partners, throughout onboarding processes, as well as co-created project cycles. These sessions will focus on:

  • Gender equality principles as outlined by UN Women.
  • Unconscious biases and strategies for inclusive decision-making.
  • The integration of gender perspectives in research and organisational processes.
  • Facilitation of gender mainstreaming practices in programme development among partners.

4. Administrative, Staff & Partnerships Management

a. Work-Life Balance and Organisational Culture

Flexible Policies

Connexus will introduce teleworking options and adaptable working hours to accommodate diverse employee needs. Policies will be inclusive of caregivers and promote a healthy work-life balance.

Support for Families

The outline and implementation of projects and programmes should consider and include resources such as on-site childcare during events and parenting support programmes will be available to staff and participants.

b. Gender Balance in Leadership and Decision-Making

Representation Goals

Besides assuring gender parity on current and prospective staff, Connexus will preserve at least 50% female representation in leadership roles. Progress will be benchmarked against Horizon Europe’s standards for gender equality in leadership.

Mentorship Programmes

Targeted mentorship and professional development programmes will be developed to support women and underrepresented groups in attaining leadership positions regarding partnering organisations and jointly carried programmes and projects.

c. Gender Equality in Recruitment and Career Progression

Inclusive Hiring Practices

Job postings will use gender-neutral language, and recruitment panels will reflect gender diversity. Connexus will actively seek diverse candidate pools.

Career Monitoring

Career trajectories will be tracked to identify and address barriers to advancement, and regular monitoring and human resources support will ensure equitable opportunities for all genders.

5. Integration of the Gender Dimension

Research

Gender analysis will be incorporated into all research initiatives and frameworks. Connexus will collaborate with academic institutions to promote gender-sensitive research methodologies, drawing on best practices from the European Commission’s guidelines. This includes exploring the intersection of gender equality with Connexus’ core mission areas such as art and culture, adult education, relief for persecuted individuals, and the promotion of democratic governance. Connexus will also work closely with grassroots organisations to co-create research projects that address mainstream challenges and ensure equitable outcomes.

Educational Content

Training materials and teaching programmes will include gender perspectives, ensuring that inclusivity is central to educational initiatives. Special attention will be given to fostering tolerance and international understanding, reflecting Connexus’ commitment to advancing cultural and intellectual exchange. Connexus will sponsor capacity-building workshops and collaborative initiatives with NGOs and non-profits to enhance educational outreach and knowledge-sharing.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Connexus will actively engage with grassroots organisations and other partners to sponsor and co-create projects that advance gender equality in practical and impactful ways. Partnership activities will focus on integrating gender perspectives into community-driven initiatives, fostering local leadership, and building long-term capacities. These collaborations will be monitored and evaluated using a dedicated MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) framework to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.

Gender Mainstreaming in Projects and Programmes

Connexus will adopt a gender mainstreaming approach across all its projects and programmes, embedding gender equality considerations at every stage of the project lifecycle. This includes:

  • Gender-Responsive Planning: Conducting gender analysis during project design to identify specific needs and priorities of different genders.
  • Implementation: Ensuring equitable access to resources, opportunities, and benefits for all genders within project activities.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Using gender-sensitive indicators to assess progress and impact, ensuring that projects contribute to reducing gender inequalities.
  • CapacityBuilding: Training project teams on gender mainstreaming practices and fostering a culture of inclusivity in programme delivery.

Connexus will also incorporate best practices from Cities Alliance’s gender mainstreaming framework, such as community consultations, participatory decision-making, and leveraging local knowledge to enhance the gender responsiveness of projects.

6. Measures Against Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Harassment

Zero-Tolerance Policy

As a woman-led organisation, Connexus will enforce a zero-tolerance policy against gender-based violence and harassment. This policy will adhere to UN Women’s guidelines and international human rights standards.

7. Alignment with Organisational Purpose

Connexus International’s Gender Equality Plan is deeply rooted in its broader mission to advance science and research, art and culture, education, and democratic governance. Specific initiatives include:

  • Research and Dissemination: Conducting and promoting a gender sensitive approach across research topics, ensuring findings are made publicly accessible to advance global understanding. Collaborations with grassroots organisations and co-created projects will further enrich this research dimension.
  • Cultural and Educational Outreach: Incorporating gender equality themes in cultural heritage projects, educational programmes, and vocational training initiatives to foster inclusive growth. These efforts will be amplified through partnerships with NGOs and community-based organisations.
  • Support for Persecuted and Marginalised Groups: Extending relief and resources to individuals facing discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, as well as prioritising women and girls as target groups regarding initiatives among migrants and diasporas, in alignment with Connexus’ commitment to tolerance and human rights.
  • Promotion of International Understanding: Leveraging the Gender Equality Plan to enhance Connexus’ role as a bridge-builder in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration.

By implementing this Gender Equality Plan, Connexus International reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that reflects global best practices and upholds the dignity of all individuals.