Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to assess two funding tools, namely performancebased allocation of funds and target agreements, with respect to their suitability for use in fostering gender equality. It uses the example of higher education in Germany, examining gender mainstreaming in the public financing of universities and the redistribution of funds within their structures. The practice of gender-responsive budgeting in the German higher education system will be analysed on the basis of 13 qualitative case studies of state-run universities. The main features of the state funding system, along with its strengths and weaknesses in promoting gender equality in academia, will be identified.