This publication from GTZ can be used as an instrument for the application of concepts, approaches and methods for transforming unequal gender relations. Each topic is introduced by a short outline of the issue, followed by subsequent steps of action. A project example illustrates the application of the method in a selected sociocultural context.

From the introduction:

"Gender equality is a necessary element to secure sustainable livelihoods of women, men and their children. Gender Equality is not only a goal in itself, but is also necessary to achieve all eight Millennium Development Goals. In particular, gender equality will ensure success in the areas of poverty alleviation, environmental sustainability, HIV/AIDS, child mortality, maternal health and primary education. Many international, regional and national agreements foreground the importance of gender equality to development cooperation, in donor- and partner countries. In their daily work, actors and stakeholders can refer to the following documents:

• Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (1979)

• Beijing Platform for Action (1995)
• Millennium Development Declaration (2000)
• UN-Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (2000)
• Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality (2004)
• BMZ Concept for the Promotion of Equal Participation by Women and Men in Development Process (2001/05)
• UN-Resolution 1820 on Sexual Violence against Civilians in Conflict (2008)
• Accra Agenda for Action (2008)
• BMZ Genderaktionsplan (2009)

Information Provided by Carol Lombard, Department of Social Development Population Website