Using intersectionality to understand structural inequality in Scotland: Evidence synthesis
This report synthesizes evidence to inform the application of intersectionality in Scotland and provides useful knowledge and case examples for public health policymakers, researchers, and analysts to consider in the Canadian context.
The report begins with a useful, evidence-informed discussion of intersectionality. A diagram on page 13 depicts the key tenets of intersectionality (e.g. membership in multiple interconnected social categories within a larger context of systems of power), and how they relate to the experience of structural inequality. Subsequent sections of the report explore what it means to take an intersectional approach to policymaking, research, and data analysis. Section 5 of the report shares 4 real world examples of how intersectionality can be used to understand and identify experiences of structural inequality in Scotland.
Recommendations for taking an intersectional approach
The authors propose five key considerations (page 71) for taking an intersectional approach to policymaking and data analysis. Each of the considerations requires a strong understanding of structures of power and oppression.
- Contextualization: A description of intersecting identities should be situated within a larger discussion of structural of power.
- Reflexivity: Policymakers, researchers, and analysts should reflect on how they experience power. This will increase their awareness of how they impact the research and policymaking process.
- Public involvement: To redistribute power, and address imbalances, those who have lived experience of systemic oppression should be meaningfully engaged in all steps related to the policy or research process.
- Reaching marginalized groups: Steps should be taken to ensure meaningful participation of those marginalized by systems of power (e.g. translation, language interpretation, financial contributions in exchange for input).
- Statistical approaches: A range of methods can be considered when taking an intersectional approach to data analysis. The advantages and disadvantages of each method should be assessed.
Use this resource to:
- Increase your understanding of what it means to take an intersectional approach in policymaking and in data analysis.
- Reflect on real world examples of how intersectionality can increase understanding of structural inequality (page 33).
- Review a glossary defining intersectionality and other related terms (page 74).
Alignment with NCCDH work
Understanding what is meant by intersectionality, and how it can be applied, aligns with other NCCDH work.
- In 2016, the NCCDH partnered with the NCC for Healthy Public Policy to explore the potential applications of intersectionality in public health practice and policy. Together, they released Public health speaks: intersectionality and health equity and a related webinar.
- In 2022, the NCCDH published Let's talk: Intersectionality as a foundational primer on this topic, as well as a companion curated list. These resources aim to increase understanding about intersectionality, as well as synthesize evidence on its historical roots and connection to critical race theory. The authors explore the use and misuse of intersectionality, the need for critical praxis, and reflect on opportunities to apply intersectionality across key public health roles to improve health equity.
- In 2023, the NCCDH partnered with the Black Health Education Collaborative to deliver a series of three webinars on disrupting anti-Black racism in public health. These webinars explore critical race theory and intersectionality as they pertain to the structural and social determinants of Black health.
- Also in 2023, the NCCDH initiated a series of webinars on faithfully applying intersectionality in public health and, concurrently, produced a suite of relevant resources on understanding power as a root cause of health inequity.
Related resources:
Let’s Talk: Redistributing power to advance health equity
Building community power for health equity: A curated list
See other resources on intersectionality and public health.
Reference:
Scottish Government. (2022). Using intersectionality to understand structural inequality in Scotland: Evidence synthesis. Edinburgh (UK): Equality and Rights, 74 p. https://www.gov.scot/publications/using-intersectionality-understand-structural-inequality-scotland-evidence-synthesis/
Tags: Intersectionality, Power, Government, Document, Report / Document