The Women and Public Policy Program of Harvard Kennedy School works to advance women and gender equity by creating knowledge, training leaders, and informing public policy and organizational practices. 

Vision

We envision a world in which everyone is able to define and fulfill their life aspirations unconstrained by gender bias.

Mission

We empower leaders and changemakers with rigorous, evidence-based research that advances women and gender equity.

Gender inequality is a structural problem, and structural problems require structural solutions. At WAPPP, we conduct research and collaborate with scholars and practitioners to develop and share such solutions... and we provide students with the insights and tools they need to be inclusive leaders who design policies and procedures that advance gender equity.

— Iris Bohnet, WAPPP co-director

WAPPP draws on Harvard University’s unparalleled faculty expertise and its global reach to impact the thinking of those who make decisions across sectors. We empower students, scholars, leaders and changemakers in three key ways:

  • Fund, produce, and identify rigorous, cutting-edge research and convene scholars
  • Deliver world-class leadership development programs for students, emerging leaders, and global executives
  • Disseminate insights and advise policymakers and organizational leaders
Areas of Focus
 

including challenges of diversity and inclusion, gender in negotiation, work and family, and access to technical training and education.

 

focusing on advancing non-traditional candidates for political office.

 

including gender equity in violent conflict, civil resistance, and sexual violence.