The Scottish Government’s Feminist Approach to International Relations (FAIR): Is it feminist? Is it fair?

In 2023 the Scottish Government (SG) released its position paper Feminist Approach to International Relations (FAIR). While the SG initially used the label feminist foreign policy (FFP) that label has shifted in favour of an approach that better reflects Scotland’s constitutional status. This article has two research aims. First, it aims to assess the extent to which FAIR could contribute to a “fairer, greener” and gender-just world? And, second, it explores what the case of Scotland and the SG’s FAIR reveal about what is often termed “paradiplomacy,”. Most FFPs have done little to challenge the injustices of the global order that produce gendered harms and injustices. Scotland’s constitutional status as a devolved nation adds a layer of complexity as it does not have power to negotiate its own foreign policy. This article asks whether the SG’s FAIR has the ability, legal power and desire to recognise the transformations that feminists wish to see in international relations? In short, does FAIR have the potential to bring about a “fairer, greener,” and gender-just world? The article discusses feminists’ calls for global actors to closely cooperate to tackle the root causes of insecurities, inequalities and injustices. Moreover, it reflects on Scotland’s constitutional status within the UK, in particular the SG’s active efforts to engage in international relations. By way of conclusion, the article posits that FAIR has features of ambition, authenticity and accountability, while containing silences and inconsistencies.