DAC work in the area of gender equality is carried out primarily through the Network on Gender Equality (GENDERNET). See here for its mandate.

GENDERNET is the only international forum which brings together gender equality experts from bilateral and multilateral development agencies to define common approaches, share good practice, innovative ideas and state-of-the-art research on gender related topics. Civil societies are also invited to contribute to activities and participate in events that the network organises.

Progress towards gender equality and women's empowerment is vital for improving economic, social and political conditions in developing countries. The knowledge, insight and experience of both women and men are required if development is to be effective, sustainable and truly people-centred. Gender equality requires specific measures at the macro, meso and micro levels in order to propel gender-responsive actions into development work. 

GENDERNET provides strategic support to DAC members to take gender equality into account in development policies and practices. It actively contributes a gender equality perspective to work conducted by other DAC subsidiary bodies, e.g. on conflict, peace building and reconstruction; governance; poverty reduction; statistics; evaluation; environment; and aid effectiveness; as well as to other relevant OECD bodies.

The GENDERNET also organises thematic workshops involving OECD partner countries, the United Nations system, research institutes and civil society organisations. It participates in advocacy events bringing together experts from both OECD and partner countries.