***Insert French Version***

How parliaments address women’s issues and mainstream gender in their work is crucial for the promotion and advancement of women’s rights. Experience shows that gender issues are addressed in a variety of ways in parliaments. Some attempt to mainstream gender in all existing structures. A growing number have established specific parliamentary committees to address gender issues and equality between men and women. Access to comparative information on the different types of committees, their functioning and mandate is key to developing strategies that will enhance parliament’s actions to address gender equality.