From security to inclusivity - analysing the norm evolution of Estonia’s gender-centred defence policies in response to NATO WPS gender agenda

Abstract

As a post-Soviet state emphasising territorial defence, Estonia represents a “least likely” case for internalising gender norms promoted by NATO’s Women, Peace and Security agenda. Drawing on Finnemore and Sikkink’s Norm Life Cycle theory, the study investigates how and to what extent WPS norms, particularly women’s participation, gender-based violence and material capacity building, have been internalised in Estonia’s strategic documents. Thus, the research question is: What effect do NATO WPS gender norms have on Estonia’s armed forces? To answer the question, a qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on various NATO and Estonian-level policy documents. The study revealed partial and selective norm internalisation, primarily influenced by the strength of coercive language used by NATO. Marking a correlation between stronger normative pressure from NATO and deeper national adoption suggests that NATO is a successful norm socialiser.