Intersectionality is the understanding that systems of power—such as those based on gender, race, sexuality, disability, class, age, and faith—interact with one another to create complex and layered experiences of inequality, discrimination, and oppression. It recognises that these characteristics do not exist independently but combine to shape unique and often multiple experiences of disadvantage in specific contexts.
A single form of discrimination cannot, and should not, be understood in isolation. People can—and often do—experience sexism, racism, homophobia, ableism, and other forms of discrimination in interconnected ways. These intersecting experiences intensify and complicate marginalisation, making it impossible to fully understand someone’s situation by looking at only one part of their identity.
Intersectionality helps us recognise that, for example:
This perspective is essential for social justice movements to be truly inclusive.
Intersectionality is central to understanding how economic policies impact women. Not all women experience financial inequality—or the effects of decision-making—equally.
While gender is a significant factor in economic disadvantage, it is not the only one. Factors such as race, disability, immigration status, and class can intensify the effects of gender-based inequalities, such as the gender pay gap or the unequal burden of unpaid care work.
At WWBG, we believe it is essential to apply an intersectional lens to all economic analysis. Only by doing so can we: