EQUAL IDEALS, UNEQUAL REALITIES: GENDER DYNAMICS IN THE WORKPLACE OF AN INTERNATIONAL RELIGIOUS NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION IN ESWATINI

Abstract

Gender equality and gender dynamics within an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) functioning in Eswatini are the subjects of this qualitative investigation. Embedded in the social construction of gender theory, which underpinned this study, the study examines attitudes, experiences, and organisational practices regarding gender roles, power dynamics, and inclusivity by drawing on in-depth interviews and focus groups with 20 employees from a range of departments and hierarchical levels. Despite official commitments to equality, thematic analysis showed enduring gender-based differences in leadership opportunities, decision-making influence, and work-life balance. In the form of gendered expectations, restricted access to mentorship, and under-representation in senior management positions, women participants identified subtle but persistent forms of exclusion. Male participants, who were primarily ideologically devoted to gender equality, showed conflicted feelings about shifting power dynamics. Unconscious bias, policy implementation gaps, and organisational culture were identified as the primary obstacles to change. The results emphasise that in order to guarantee changes in gender equality, context-specific solutions are required that go beyond the adoption of policies. In light of the results, the study ends with recommendations for gender-responsive leadership development, ongoing staff sensitisation, and accountability procedures to alter long-standing gender dynamics in INGOs in Eswatini and similar settings.