Quick Guide to Power Analysis

Overview

Oxfam’s work is based on the understanding that unequal power relations are one of the main underlying causes of poverty and suffering.

One of Oxfam’s aims is to transform power relations, so that poor men and women have greater influence over the policies, structures and social norms that affect their lives.

However, unequal power relations manifest themselves in many different ways: from unfair trade regulations that disproportionately benefit rich countries, to the social norms that cause young girls to suffer malnutrition because they are only allowed to eat after their brothers have had their fill.