In a significant step toward fostering inclusive governance, 23 members of various factions in De Nationale Assemblée participated in an interactive training session on analyzing the National Budget through a gender lens. The session, titled ‘A Fair Budget: The National Budget Through a Gender Lens,’ was organized by Stichting Projekta in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Held on Friday, the training underscored the importance of recognizing that budgetary policies are not neutral and can disproportionately impact different societal groups. Sharda Ganga, Director of Projekta, led the session, which was funded by the Equality Fund. Participants were equipped with practical tools to assess the 2026 budget’s effects on women, men, boys, and girls, with applications extending to indigenous communities, people with disabilities, and vulnerable youth. During the opening remarks, Director Nasier Eskak, representing Minister Bee, emphasized the necessity of collaboration in crafting policies that reflect societal diversity. The training highlighted the potential of budgetary measures to either reinforce inequality or promote equal opportunities and social justice. One experienced parliamentarian noted, ‘The gender lens reveals who benefits and who is left out, making it clear that the National Budget is not neutral.’ Practical examples and a checklist provided insights into unintended consequences of policies. Participants stressed that the gender lens encompasses all societal groups, not just women. Shiefania Jahangier, Head of the Bureau for Gender Affairs, urged attendees to integrate gender equality into economic, political, and institutional policies. This training is part of a broader initiative by Projekta to strengthen gender-responsive policymaking within the government and De Nationale Assemblée, aligning with its mission to build a human rights-based, inclusive society.