Research and Budget Advocacy
The Research and Budget Advocacy Program aims to influence public policy, planning, and budgeting to better reflect the priorities and rights of women and girls. Recognizing that data-driven advocacy is critical for sustainable change, AWU conducts research and engages in budget advocacy to ensure that the voices of women and adolescent girls are heard and included in Uganda’s development agenda.
Purpose and Objectives:
This program addresses the persistent gap between policy commitments and actual investments in programs that support women and girls. Its core objectives are to:
Highlight the unique challenges facing women and girls through evidence-based research.
Ensure that public resources are allocated equitably and accountably.
Influence national and local government planning processes to prioritize gender-responsive programs.
Key Components:
Evidence-Based Research:
AWU conducts community-based studies, surveys, and focus group discussions on key gender issues such as education, health, economic empowerment, and gender-based violence.
Findings are used to develop policy briefs, reports, and position papers to inform advocacy efforts.
Stakeholder Engagement:
AWU works closely with local communities, civil society organizations, district officials, and national policymakers to identify gaps and needs.
Participatory forums and dialogue sessions are held to ensure community voices—especially those of young women—inform policy processes.
Budget Analysis and Advocacy:
AWU reviews national and local budgets to assess allocations for gender-sensitive programs.
Advocacy campaigns are conducted to push for increased and better-targeted funding for services affecting women and girls, such as maternal health, education, and sexual and reproductive health.
Lobbying and Campaigns:
AWU engages in targeted lobbying of policymakers and duty bearers to act on evidence-based recommendations.
Public campaigns raise awareness and put pressure on relevant institutions to uphold commitments to gender equity.
Our Research and Budget Advocacy Program serves as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between grassroots realities and policymaking. By grounding advocacy in evidence and amplifying community voices, the program helps shape inclusive development that prioritizes the rights and well-being of women and girls.
