Concepts, terms and definitions Gender and language are inextricably tied. Language communicates our attitudes, beliefs and realities and is one of the most powerful ways that gender-based discrimination is perpetuated. This Toolkit uses the following concepts, terms and definitions. Related to gender Gender Socially constructed characteristics, particularly norms, roles, behaviours, and expectations that relate to sex categories. Notions of gender vary between and within cultures and over time. Gender identity Is a person’s internal sense of being female or male, or a third or alternative gender, or a combination of genders or of having no gender. A person’s gender identity may not necessarily correspond with the sex they were assigned at birth. Intersectionality Recognises that people have multiple identities, relationships and are impacted by various social factors. These combine to create intersecting forms of privilege and oppression depending on a person’s context and existing power structures such as patriarchy, ableism, colonialism, imperialism, homophobia and racism. Gender analysis Analysis of the situation for different genders, including identifying gender inequalities, which usually results in recommendations to reduce inequalities. Gender audit A tool to find out the extent to which gender equality is understood and acted upon in your NHRI. Gender balance Refers to the equitable distribution of opportunities and resources among genders. Gender-disaggregated data Data collected, analysed and presented separately according to sex and gender identity. Gender diverse An umbrella term used to describe gender identities beyond the female / male binary. Gender mainstreaming Focuses on integrating a gender perspective across all policies, programmes, and operations so that gender equality is systematically considered in every area of the NHRI’s internal and external work. Gender-sensitive indicators Indicators that measure gender-related changes over time. Gender specialisation Involves having dedicated initiatives, resources, expertise, or programmes that specifically focus on advancing gender equality (e.g., a gender unit, targeted activities, or specialist staff). Gender strategy A plan that sets out what you intend to achieve, usually over a three-to-five year period, to progress gender equality internally and externally to your organisation. Substantive gender equality Where people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, opportunities and outcomes. Gender Strategy Toolkit 2026 6