2.7 Validate and finalise the Strategic Framework There are two final actions to complete Phase 2. They involve: • G  aining approval for the Framework and finalising it. • F  amiliarising the Framework with your key stakeholders. Refer 2.2 and 2.3 in your Gender Strategy Action Planning Matrix (Tool 2) You have a Board member and/or Senior Leader on the GSDT, and they will have been reporting on progress to their colleagues. Senior Members may also have been part of focus group discussions. Now that you have drafted the Strategic Framework, it is important to check-in with your Board and Senior leadership, to seek their approval to move forward. This may be with the Board itself, or it may be delegated to the senior leadership team. Alongside the framework itself, your submission could include a paper that covers the following: 1. Purpose of the submission: Seeking approval for the draft Strategic Framework and to continue to develop the gender strategy [date to date]. 2. Background and context: Why the strategy is needed, the alignment with the NHRI’s strategic direction, and alignment with national and international obligations and mandate. 3. Summary of development process: This would include an outline of Phase 1 & 2, and the evidence that informed the decisions you have made. 4. Outline of what next: The steps you will take to develop the strategy in full and embed it into the NHRI. 5. Key points for consideration: Resource (budget and personnel) implications, timeframes, risks, opportunities. 6. Your Recommendation: (e.g.) “That the Board/SLT approve the draft Strategic Framework [with any amendments as discussed], including resource implications, and that development of the gender strategy continue.” 2.8 Socialise the Framework with internal and external stakeholders Once the Framework is approved and you have been given the go-ahead, communicate with your Core Stakeholders (internal) and Key External Stakeholders (Tool 3). This is a fairly light touch engagement, informing them of developments. Along with sharing a copy of the Strategic Framework, your key message is that you are updating your stakeholders on progress. Namely: • The Framework is developed and has been approved by the [Board]. • G  iven the strategic priorities identified, there are areas for collaboration with specific internal and external stakeholders. • The next stage – building the gender strategy – will roll out [time period]. • You will be in contact with relevant people/organisations accordingly during that time. Gender Strategy Toolkit 2026 42