The EU as a global actor Is the EU diffusing norms in third countries through NGOs?

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to evaluate the role of the European Union as a global actor and as promoter of gender equality in third countries. The thesis consists of a case study of the relation between the EU and a Mexican NGO, where I am trying to determine its effect on the formulation of public policies protecting women’s rights. To analyze the case study I benefit from the role theory, normative power and interregionalism. The findings of the study suggest that the EU is employing instruments such as political dialogue together with the principle of conditionality in order to spread ideas, norms and values. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the collaboration with the civil society is an important element in the way the EU diffuses norms and values in third countries.