Examining multidimensional inequality and deprivation in Britain using the capability approach

There is growing interest in the development and application of the capability approach as a basis for multidimensional inequality and deprivation analysis. This article contributes to the growing body of literature in this area by examining how the capability approach is being operationalised as a basis for national equality and human rights monitoring in Britain, using the Equality Measurement Framework (EMF). The EMF is a capability-based analytical tool that evaluates social inequalities across ten domains of freedom and opportunity (or capability) and three critical aspects of inequality (functionings, treatment and autonomy). The current article provides a conceptual overview of the EMF and sets out some of the latest findings against selected Framework indicators drawn from a number of different domains. The substantive findings reveal patterns of inequality and deprivation within a range of critical areas of life, including life, physical security, standard of living, participation, individual life and identity, expression and self-respect.