illustration for the drivers of inequality

Driver Category 7.4

Harmful social and cultural norms which result in the marginalisation and discrimination of certain groups (gender and sexual minorities, women, ethnic minorities, elderly, disabled, etc.)

This driver captures all forms of discriminatory beliefs, norms and behaviours, which result in certain groups being at greater risk of harassment, marginalisation and intolerant behaviour. It also captures norms related to early and non-consensual marriage and how free people are within marriage to make choices and control their own lives.

Generally this driver relates to some groups being less free to make the choices they want in how they live their lives.

Guiding Questions

General questions

  • What is the nature of cultural stereotyping of different groups within your country?
  • Is this stereotyping associated with dislike for some groups?
  • Do social attitudes towards some groups leave members of these groups marginalised and isolated?
  • Is there any evidence on what shapes these attitudes?
  • Is there evidence that social norms and cultural practices related to gender play a role in influencing women and girls’ ability to enjoy a good social life and play a full role in their local community?
  • Is there any evidence on the best way to challenges these norms and practices?
  • Is there evidence that social and cultural norms and attitudes towards disability affect the extent to which people with disabilities are marginalised?
  • What attitudinal barriers and prejudice do persons with disabilities face in your country?
  • Are some disabilities more or less affected by traditional beliefs?
  • Is there evidence that harmful beliefs regarding disability are influencing the ability of people with disabilities to engage fully in society?
  • Do racist attitudes lead to members of some groups being socially excluded?
  • What attitudinal barriers and prejudice do members of ethnic minority groups face in your country?
  • Is there evidence that people with certain religious beliefs are marginalised?
  • Are people from some religions prevented from openly practicing their religion?
  • Is there evidence that social norms and cultural practices related to sexual orientation result in members of the LGBTI community not being able to live openly?
  • What is the government doing to shift mindsets and behaviours, and to challenge harmful cultural practices in relation to gender equality?
  • What public information campaigns and public education and outreach activities are undertaken?
  • What community-based activities are supported to engage communities’ and traditional leaders’ support for transforming traditional gender norms within the family and promoting women and girls’ empowerment?
  • Is there evidence that social and cultural norms marginalise elderly people?
  • How does this relate to how elderly people live? Are efforts made to engage elderly people in community events and activities?
  • What measures is the government taking to combat harmful beliefs and practices regarding disability stigma?
  • Do public awareness campaigns exist to promote positive attitudes to persons with disabilities?
  • What is being done to tackle discriminatory attitudes and practices towards specific groups in communities and wider society?

Indicators

Potential indicators to monitor the drivers of inequalities in this main driver category

  • % of the population who self-report as being prejudiced towards various groups (by group characteristics)
  • % of minority groups reporting feeling socially isolated and marginalised
  • Amount of public spending on supporting community groups and charities working to reduce isolation and marginalisation
  • Amount of public spending on information campaigns regarding discrimination
  • Number of staff employed by equality body and annual budget

Candidate Policies

To see related Candidate Policies in this main driver category please click here.