This report provides insight into integrating cultural analysis in development programmes, especially in the critical areas of gender equity and equality and reproductive health and rights. The culmination of two years' work with UNFPA field offices, headquarters staff and technical advisers, the report examines culturally sensitive programming during the past decade in a number of countries where UNFPA operates- Brazil, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Uganda and Yemen.

This report contains sections on the socio-political participation of women and provides statistical information on the evolution of applying gender equality policies.

This study focuses on the activity of revising constitutions which reflects a changed perception of their importance and purposes. Changes start with constitution-making, whether as a form of negotiation or the consolidation of social victory or reform. However, the record of the effectiveness of these constitutions is uneven.

This paper analyzes the political inclusion of women and Afro-descendents in Brazil. It describes party and election laws and regulations in Brazil aimed at increasing women’s participation in politics.