Guide for Training Preparation and Delivery: Training on Gender Mainstreaming in EU Integration - The Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance

Gender equality is a core value of the European Union and a legal requirement for countries seeking EU membership. As part of the EU accession process, candidate countries must align their laws, policies, and programmes with EU standards on gender equality and non-discrimination. This includes integrating gender considerations into public policies and into EU-funded programmes, particularly through the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA). Building the capacity of public institutions and other stakeholders to apply gender mainstreaming is therefore essential for successful EU integration. The Guide for Training Preparation and Delivery: Training on Gender Mainstreaming in EU Integration – The Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance was developed to support this process in North Macedonia. The guide builds on years of capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening knowledge on gender equality among public administration, decision-makers, and other actors involved in EU integration and IPA programming. Designed as a practical toolkit for trainers and facilitators, the guide provides key learning materials, training methods, and resources needed to deliver effective trainings on gender mainstreaming in the context of EU accession. It explains the EU gender equality framework, outlines the gender requirements linked to IPA funding, and highlights the importance of integrating gender perspectives into policy development and programme implementation. By supporting the development of a network of trained gender experts and trainers, the guide helps strengthen institutional capacity for gender-responsive policymaking. Ultimately, it contributes to ensuring that the benefits of EU integration are shared equally and that women and girls are fully included in the country’s path toward EU membership.