1.  Peer Reviewed Title: A Mixed Methods Evaluation of the Effect of the Protect and Respect Intervention on the Condom Use and Disclosure Practices of Women Living with HIV/AIDS. Author: Teti M; Bowleg L; Cole R; Lloyd L; Rubinstein S; Spencer S; Aaron E; Ricksecker A; Berhane Z; Gold M Source: AIDS and Behavior. 2009 Apr 9; Abstract: This mixed methods study evaluated the efficacy of an intervention to increase HIV status disclosure and condom use among 184 women living with HIV/AIDS (WLH/A). Participants were recruited from an HIV clinic and randomly assigned to: (1) a comparison group, who received brief messages from their health care providers (HCPs), or; (2) an intervention group, who received messages from HCPs, a group-level intervention, and peer-led support groups. Participants completed risk surveys at baseline, 6-, 12-, and 18-months. Quantitative analyses using hierarchical generalized linear models within a repeated measures framework indicated that intervention participants had significantly higher odds of reporting condom use with sexual partners in months 6 and 18. Grounded Theory-based qualitative analyses suggested that the opportunity to discuss the social context of their lives in addition to HIV/AIDS, including continued stigma and fear related to disclosure, are also essential components of a prevention strategy for WLH/A. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | THEORETICAL MODELS | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | WOMEN | PEER EDUCATORS | WOMEN'S GROUPS | SEXUAL PARTNERS | CONDOM USE | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | HIV PREVENTION | STIGMA | FEAR | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Risk Reduction Behavior | Interpersonal Relations | Social Problems | Emotions | Psychological Factors Document Number: 331003 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Micro-credit, women's groups, control of own money: HIV-related negotiation among partnered Dominican women. Author: Ashburn K; Kerrigan D; Sweat M Source: AIDS and Behavior. 2008 May;12(3):396-403. Abstract: A sample of 356 members of women's groups, aged 18-49, in the Dominican Republic were interviewed by trained female interviewers. Data among 273 partnered women were analyzed. The dependent variable, a measure of HIV-related negotiation, was examined for associations with control of own money, level of women's group participation, and ever having received a loan through a micro-credit program. Findings suggest control of own money to be significantly associated with HIV-related negotiation. Ever having received a loan and level of women's group participation, however, were not significantly associated with HIV-related negotiation. Empowerment measured as control of own money may influence HIV protective behavior among partnered women in this setting. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | WOMEN'S GROUPS | MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT | HIV PREVENTION | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | FEMALE ROLE | INEQUALITIES | Developing Countries | Caribbean | Americas | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Interpersonal Relations | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 325821 |
| 3. Title: Prospects for feminism in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Author: Barlow R; Akbarzadeh S Source: Human Rights Quarterly. 2008;30:21-40. Abstract: There is a stark contrast between the level of Iranian women's social and political engagement and what the conservative regime prescribes. The gap between the reality of women's participation in public life and their restricted legal status has emboldened women's groups to campaign for legal reforms. But the Iranian regime has adopted an uncompromising position in relation to such demands. This is seen as an existential matter for the state. As a result, the Islamic regime has adopted a highly intolerant and repressive approach to women's groups. This is most evident in relation to secular-oriented feminists, such as the Nobel Prize Laureate Shirin Ebadi, driving a wedge between the latter and the more religiously-oriented feminists. (author's) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | GOVERNMENT | ISLAM | FEMINISM | POLITICAL FACTORS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | LEGISLATION | WOMEN'S STATUS | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | Developing Countries | Middle East | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Religion | Socioeconomic Factors | Human Rights Document Number: 324454 |
| 4. Title: Measuring the benefits of health promotion programmes: Application of the contingent valuation method. Author: Borghi J; Jan S Source: Health Policy. 2008 Aug;87(2):235-248. Abstract: Economic evaluation of health promotion programmes presents well documented challenges. These programmes often generate significant non-health benefits which are typically ignored within economic evaluation. This study explored the use of the contingent valuation (CV) method to value the broader benefits of a women's group programme to improve maternal and newborn health in Nepal. Interviews were conducted with 93 women's group members, 70 women non-members and 33 men. Respondents were asked to give reasons for their willingness-to-pay (WTP) in terms of health and/or non-health benefits. WTP was regressed against socio-economic and demographic variables using ordinary least squares. Seventy eight percent of respondents were willing-to-pay for the women's groups. There was no significant difference between the WTP of women's group members compared to female non-members. Men were willing-to-pay significantly more than women. WTP reflected non-health benefits in over 80% of cases. At least 11% of women attending meetings and 38% of those not attending were WTP for altruistic motives. Future research should address the relative value of non-health compared to health benefits; and motivations behind non-user values and their consistency across settings. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | INTERVIEWS | WOMEN'S GROUPS | MATERNAL HEALTH | INFANT HEALTH | PROGRAM EFFICIENCY | PROGRAM EVALUATION | ECONOMIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Child Health | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 327491 |
| 5. Title: The violence against women campaigns in Latin America: new feminist alliances. Author: Cole S; Phillips L Source: Feminist Criminology. 2008 Apr;3(2):145-168. Abstract: This article urges caution in reading the backlash against gender-sensitive policies as a global phenomenon. Drawing inspiration from Latin America, the authors consider how international agreements for nation-states to adopt measures to prevent violence against women have been taken up in proactive ways through the collaboration of international organizations, national governments, and expanding and evolving women's movements. The push for the development of democratic citizenship in Latin America has opened up possibilities for bringing awareness of violence against women to a public that is in the process of engaging with a range of social justice issues and collaborating on multiple fronts. The authors argue that strategic coalitions across difference have been central to the success of the efforts to combat violence against women. They show how new feminist alliances have not only helped denormalize and deprivatize gender violence but revitalized feminist issues as part of a broad front to build progressive societies. (author's) Language: English Keywords: LATIN AMERICA | BRAZIL | ECUADOR | CRITIQUE | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | POLICY DEVELOPMENT | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | GENDER ISSUES | FEMINISM | SOCIAL CHANGE | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | Americas | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | South America, Western | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Programs | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Interest Groups Document Number: 307972 |
| 6. Title: Sexuality of women attended in family health program: a social poetic production. Author: Gomes ME; Silveira LC; Petit SH; Brasileiro GM; Almeida AN Source: Revista Latino - Americana De Enfermagem. 2008 May-Jun;16(3):382-8. Abstract: The concept of promotion of health is one of the main axes of current health policies in Brazil. The adoption of this concept implies a change in the care model involving valuing a greater autonomy of subjects to work improving their conditions of life. From this perspective, several elements of health practices have to be reviewed, sexuality among them. Thus, we aimed at producing sexuality concepts as of the knowledge of women cared for in a health unity. This is a qualitative study adopting a social poetic approach. The results pointed out several affections that involve the concept of sexuality going beyond the biological aspect. We understand that this study may help professionals caring for women in a health unity because it broadens the concept of sexuality allowing for reflection on the nursing practice in collective health. Language: EnglishPortugueseSpanish Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | PROMOTION | WOMEN'S HEALTH | SEXUALITY | POETRY | WORKSHOPS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Marketing | Health | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Culture | Education | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 329001 |
7.  Title: The vulnerability of 'self-help': Women and microfinance in south India. Author: Kalpana K Source: Brighton, United Kingdom, University of Sussex, Institute of Development Studies, 2008 Apr. 44 p. (IDS Working Paper No. 303) Abstract: Self-help groups (SHGs) play a major role in providing microfinance in India. But they do not work alone. State institutions are also a big part of the microfinance landscape. They promote and finance SHGs, and also interact directly with them. This paper considers how this kind of 'institutionalised co-production' in service delivery works in practice. The research shows that the relationships are not symmetrical. When they seek access to bank credit, women's groups are in a dependent relationship, and are subject to, and tarnished by, the institutional imperatives, systemic corruption and political compulsions that shape the behaviour of rural development bureaucracies and banks. Part of the problem lies in a legacy of bank staff mistrusting borrowers due to arrears from previous credit granted under a different set of public schemes. Banks still try to recover old loans, and sometimes grant new loans to womens' SHGs conditional on repayments by their male relatives. Women consider the ways in which bank officials assess credit-worthiness of SHGs as sometimes being discriminatory and suggestive of caste-profiling. Since banks, as institutions, are not very sensitive to the realities of their SHG borrowers, the quality of the relationship often depends on the attitude of the bank's branch manager. Success in accessing loans is often contingent on how SHGs, bank staff, government officers and non-government organisations collude to subvert the official objective of the loan programme - enterprise-promotion. Manufacturing evidence about non-existent enterprises involves substantial costs and risks for SHGs. Providing financial services in rural India is now a profitable venture and is attracting private financing institutions, including transnational banks. It is suggested that we need to enquire further into the power dynamics that underlie relationships between the poor people using the financial services and their providers. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | RURAL POPULATION | MICROECONOMIC FACTORS | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | POLITICAL FACTORS | DEVELOPMENT POLICY | CASTE | INCENTIVES | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | WOMEN'S STATUS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Programs | Organization and Administration | Financial Activities | Policy | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 327745 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Process and effects of a community intervention on malaria in rural Burkina Faso: Randomized controlled trial. Author: Kouyate B; Some F; Jahn A; Coulibaly B; Eriksen J Source: Malaria Journal. 2008 Mar 25;7:50. Abstract: In the rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa, the majority of young children affected by malaria have no access to formal health services. Home treatment through mothers of febrile children supported by mother groups and local health workers has the potential to reduce malaria morbidity and mortality. A cluster-randomized controlled effectiveness trial was implemented from 2002-2004 in a malaria endemic area of rural Burkina Faso. Six and seven villages were randomly assigned to the intervention and control arms respectively. Febrile children from intervention villages were treated with chloroquine (CQ) by their mothers, supported by local women group leaders. CQ was regularly supplied through a revolving fund from local health centres. The trial was evaluated through two cross-sectional surveys at baseline and after two years of intervention. The primary endpoint of the study was the proportion of moderate to severe anaemia in children aged 6-59 months. For assessment of the development of drug efficacy over time, an in vivo CQ efficacy study was nested into the trial. The study is registered under www.controlled.trials.com (ISRCTN 34104704). The intervention was shown to be feasible under program conditions and a total of 1.076 children and 999 children were evaluated at baseline and follow-up time points respectively. Self-reported CQ treatment of fever episodes at home as well as referrals to health centres increased over the study period. At follow-up, CQ was detected in the blood of high proportions of intervention and control children. Compared to baseline findings, the prevalence of anaemia (29% vs 16%, p less than 0.0001) and malaria parameters such as prevalence of P. falciparum parasitaemia, fever and palpable spleens was lower at follow-up but there were no differences between the intervention and control group. CQ efficacy decreased over the study period but this was not associated with the intervention. The decreasing prevalence of malaria morbidity including anaemia over the study period can be explained by an overall increase of malaria prevention and treatment activities in the study area. The lack of effectiveness of the intervention was likely caused by contamination, preexisting differences in the coverage of malaria treatment in both study groups and an unexpectedly rapid increase of resistance against CQ, the first-line treatment drug at the time of the study. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BURKINA FASO | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | RURAL POPULATION | COMMUNITY | CHILDREN | WOMEN'S GROUPS | MALARIA | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | LEADERSHIP | DRUGS | TREATMENT | ANEMIA | PREVALENCE | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Organization and Administration | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Measurement Document Number: 325597 |
| 9. Title: A case study of women's education within the Moroccan development model. Author: Marrakchi NL Source: Journal of North African Studies. 2008 Mar;13(1):55-73. Abstract: This paper examines the current efforts being made in Morocco in the field of women's education and evaluates the success of the Moroccan Development Model in the field of women's education by examining the topic through three lenses: international aid agencies, Moroccan government and royal efforts and the Moroccan Women's Movement. Consideration of the historical, religious and economic frameworks for each actor maintains priority within the study as a means of evaluating the progress made to date, the current status of women's education and the long-term goals and timeframes. The findings within this paper are primarily based on UN statistics, ratings, and definitions as well as other reputable sources such as the World Bank. Sources used include magazine articles, websites, academic journals and papers, and sociological, political and anthropological books on Morocco and women. It must be noted that this evaluation focuses on Anglophone and Francophone sources only and does not consider Arabophone sources. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MOROCCO | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | EDUCATION | LITERACY | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Human Rights Document Number: 323794 |
| 10. Title: Can microcredit help improve the health of poor women? Some findings from a cross-sectional study in Kerala, India. Author: Mohindra KS; Haddad S; Narayana D Source: International Journal for Equity in Health. 2008 Jan 10;7(2):[30] p. Abstract: This study examines associations between female participation in a microcredit program in India, known as self help groups (SHGs), and women's health in the south Indian state of Kerala. Because SHGs do not have a formal health program, this provides a unique opportunity to assess whether SHG participation influences women's health via the social determinants of health. This cross-sectional study used special survey data collected in 2003 from one Panchayat (territorial decentralized unit). Information was collected on women's characteristics, health determinants (exclusion to health care, exposure to health risks, decision-making agency), and health achievements (self assessed health, markers of mental health). The study sample included 928 non elderly poor women. The primary finding is that compared to non-participants living in a household without a SHG member, the odds of facing exclusion is significantly lower among early joiners, women who were members for more than 2 years (OR=0.58, CI=0.41-0.80), late joiners, members for 2 years and less (OR=0.60, CI=0.39-0.94), and non-participants who live in a household with a SHG member (OR=0.53, CI=0.32-0.90). We also found that after controlling for key women's characteristics, early joiners of a SHG are less likely to report emotional stress and poor life satisfaction compared to non-members (OR=0.52, CI=0.30-0.93; OR=0.32, CI=0.14-0.71). No associations were found between SHG participation and self assessed health or exposure to health risks. The relationship between SHG participation and decision-making agency is unclear. Microcredit is not a panacea, but could help to improve the health of poor women by addressing certain issues relevant to the context. In Kerala, SHG participation can help protect poor women against exclusion to health care and possibly aid in promoting their mental health. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | WOMEN | POVERTY | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN'S HEALTH | MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT | INCOME GENERATION PROGRAMS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Economic Development | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Program Evaluation Document Number: 308633 |
| 11. Title: International Community of Women Living with HIV / AIDS (ICW): Monitoring access to treatment and care, sexual and reproductive health and rights and violence against women 'by and for' HIV positive women. Author: Orza L Source: In: Making aid more effective: Promoting better monitoring and tracking of gender equality in HIV and AIDS responses, edited by Robert Carr. New York, New York, United Nations Development Fund for Women [UNIFEM], 2008. :33-39. Abstract: Most available national and international level monitoring and reporting tools are gender blind, or at best gender neutral, and do not draw particular attention to the priorities of women or assess positive improvement in the lives of women in general, or HIV-positive women in particular. The Positive Women Monitoring Change (PWMC) tool intends to explore the realities of HIV-positive women's lives, including young HIV-positive women (aged 18-30), whose voices are consistently left unheard in decision making fora, and whose rights, concerns and needs both differ from those of older women and are usually overlooked. The tool intends to provide a platform for the voices of other marginalized women too, such as disabled women and sex workers. Thus the first part of the tool looks at positive women's knowledge and awareness of rights and issues that concern them in the three areas mentioned above (ACTS, sexual and reproductive health rights, and violence against women), but also their lived experiences of putting or attempting to put that knowledge into practice, and the challenges that they face in doing so. The second part of the tool looks at the experiences and attitudes of service providers working in the three areas. This part explores the strengths and weaknesses of available services, and also considers the constraints and barriers service providers themselves face in providing quality care and support in resource poor, remote and under-prioritized settings. Women can use the first part of the tool to cross-check information they receive from service providers. The third part of the tool takes the survey to government level, where it can be used to hold governments and ministries to account on their promises, to advocate for priority issues using evidence from both HIV-positive women and service providers, as well as to monitor the progress of government commitments. More recently, and in view of experiences in using it in various situations, the PWMC tool has been further developed into a package including information sheets, position briefings and a training curriculum. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | MONITORING | CARE AND SUPPORT | TREATMENT | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | ADVOCACY | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Evaluation | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Human Rights | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Communication Document Number: 331403 |
| 12. Title: Empowering married young women and improving their sexual and reproductive health: effects of the First-time Parents Project. Author: Santhya KG; Haberland N; Das A; Lakhani A; Ram F; Sinha RK; Ram U; Mohanty SK Source: New Delhi, India, Population Council, 2008. 68 p. Abstract: A growing body of evidence from India and other countries shows that the situation and needs of married adolescent girls and young women are different from both that of unmarried adolescent girls and married adult women, posing distinct programme challenges. For example, given the pressure to initiate childbearing soon after marriage in India, married young women are far more likely to experience regular sexual relations, less likely to use condoms and less likely to refuse sex than are unmarried sexually active adolescents or adult women. This places married young women at higher risk than unmarried sexually active adolescents of acquiring sexually transmitted infections and, among those under 16, at higher risk than married adult women of experiencing obstetric complications associated with early childbearing. Moreover, married young women are socially and economically more disadvantaged than their unmarried peers and married adult counterparts. For example, married adolescents are far less likely than older married women to report involvement in decision-making pertaining to their own lives, access to economic resources or mobility within and outside the marital village. These differences call for specific strategies to meet the special needs of married adolescent girls and young women. While recent policies and programmes have recognised the special needs of married adolescents and young women, their effective implementation has been handicapped by the lack of evidence on the kinds of intervention models that are feasible and effective in improving the situation of this group. In this background, the Population Council, in partnership with Child In Need Institute (CINI) in Kolkata, Deepak Charitable Trust (DCT) in Vadodara and International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, initiated an intervention project, the First-time Parents Project. The project aimed to develop and test an integrated package of health and social interventions to improve married young women's reproductive and sexual health knowledge and practices, increase their ability to act in their own interest and expand their social support networks. The project was formulated on the hypothesis that the periods immediately following marriage and surrounding the first pregnancy and birth, though periods of substantial vulnerability, offer a unique and powerful entry point for improving the situation of married young women. This report describes the First-time Parents Project and examines the extent to which the intervention improved the social and reproductive health situation of married young women. Specifically, the report assesses the extent to which exposure to the intervention influenced young women's agency and social support networks; knowledge of key reproductive health issues; reproductive health behaviours, including the use of contraceptives to delay pregnancy and the use of appropriate pregnancy-related health services; and partner communication and support. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | PROGRESS REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CURRENTLY MARRIED | YOUTH | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MOTHERS | RURAL POPULATION | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | FIRST BIRTH | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Health | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Social Change | Pregnancy History | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics Document Number: 328279 |
| 13. Title: Preliminary report on characteristics of women participating in the meeting of the Oral Contraceptive Pill Members Club at Siriraj Hospital. Author: Thamkhantho M; Jivasak-Apimas S; Chiravacharadej G; Inthawong J; Butrpetch K Source: Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand. 2008 Jun;91(6):781-786. Abstract: Oral Contraceptive (OC) services are not frequented a lot in Siriraj Hospital. Therefore, the OC services initiated the Siriraj OC Members Club to increase the number of OC users, develop a 'one-stop service' clinic and a 'help line' to assist women in coping with the side effects during OC use, and provide proper information. Hospital personnel who worked at Sirriaj Hospital were informed about the program of the Siriraj OC Members Club by posters, leaflets, hospital website, and word of mouth. Those who registered as members participated in the half-day meeting of the program. Questionnaire assessment was distributed to all members who attended the meeting. The average age of participants was 31.4 years. The lowest education level was secondary school and the highest was doctorate. Most married members have used at least one kind of contraceptive method. OC's and condoms were the most common contraceptive method used in the past. Their source for obtaining OC was drug stores. In general, most women had had irritability and depression. Almost all women expected to have more information about advantages and disadvantages of OC use to cope with fear and side effects of OC use. The conclusion was that women who attended the meeting still need accurate and full information about the OC's. This program proposed to provide them with up-to-date and correct information about the OC. Furthermore, the one-stop-service will save their time and the help-line will assist them to cope with the side effects of OC use. (Author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | FAMILY PLANNING ACCEPTORS | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | FAMILY PLANNING ACCEPTOR CHARACTERISTICS | INTERNET | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, SIDE EFFECTS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | AGE FACTORS | PHARMACY DISTRIBUTION | CONTRACEPTIVE DISTRIBUTION | FEAR | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Family Planning Programs | Family Planning | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Information Networks | Communication | Contraceptive Safety | Safety | Public Health | Health | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nonclinical Distribution | Distributional Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327453 |
| 14. Title: Establishing support groups for HIV-infected women: using experiences to develop guiding principles for project implementation. Author: Visser MJ; Mundell JP Source: SAHARA J. 2008 Jul;5(2):65-73. Abstract: HIV-infected women need support to deal with their diagnosis as well as with the stigma attached to HIV. As part of their practical training, Master's-level psychology students negotiated with the staff of four clinics in townships in Tshwane, South Africa, to establish support groups for HIV+ women and offered to assist them in facilitating the groups. This study aimed to understand why the implementation of groups was successful in one clinic and not other clinics. The student reports on their experiences and interaction with clinic staff and clients were used as sources of data. Using qualitative data analysis, different dynamics and factors that could affect project implementation were identified in each clinic. The socio-ecological and systems theories were used to understand implementation processes and obstacles in implementation. The metaphor of building a bridge over a gorge was used to describe the different phases in and obstacles to the implementation of the intervention. Valuable lessons were learnt, resulting in the development of guiding principles for the implementation of support groups in community settings. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | THEORETICAL MODELS | OPERATIONS RESEARCH | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SUPPORT GROUPS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | SYSTEMS ANALYSIS | IMPLEMENTATION | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | PROGRAM EVALUATION | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Programs | Organization and Administration | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Social Networks | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior Document Number: 329228 |
| 15. Title: 'Choose life' license plates. State policies in brief as of January 1, 2007. Author: Guttmacher Institute Source: New York, New York, Guttmacher Institute, 2007 Jan 1. [2] p. Abstract: In recent years, a handful of states have established specialty "Choose Life" license plates. The plates cost anywhere between $25 and $70 on top of standard fees. In some cases, money generated from their sale directly supports the activities of specific antichoice organizations or crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs), which often provide biased and medically inaccurate counseling to women seeking a pregnancy test or counseling with regard to an unintended pregnancy. In other cases, the funding goes to organizations that provide services related to adoption. Many of the states with "Choose Life" license plates explicitly prohibit organizations that offer a full range of services, including abortion counseling or referral, from receiving the funds. Reproductive health activists have challenged some of these policies, arguing that it is unconstitutional for a state to endorse one political viewpoint over another, and that the funding of agencies affiliated with churches or religious organizations amounts to establishment of religion. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | ABORTION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | SOCIAL MARKETING | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Marketing | Economic Factors Document Number: 310876 Notification |
| 16. Title: Protecting access to clinics. State policies in brief as of January 1, 2007. Author: Guttmacher Institute Source: New York, New York, Guttmacher Institute, 2007 Jan 1. [2] p. Abstract: While the handful of murders of abortion doctors and clinic staff have attracted much media attention, family planning clinics report that they frequently experience other serious forms of antiabortion violence. These include bombings, arson and vandalism, as well as violent protests and blockades. In 1994, the federal government enacted the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which prohibits intentional property damage and the use of "force or threat of force or…physical obstruction" to "injure, intimidate or interfere with" someone entering a health care facility. States have taken two approaches designed to protect abortion providers. Some states prohibit specific activities, while others have created floating "bubble zones" of several feet around a person who is within a specific distance of a clinic; protesters are prohibited from crossing into that "bubble zone" without the person's consent. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | ABORTION | PHYSICIANS | VIOLENCE | CRIME | FAMILY PLANNING CENTERS | LEGISLATION | SOCIAL PROTECTION | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Behavior | Social Problems | Health Facilities Document Number: 310887 Notification |
| 17. Title: Special report on Poland: Exorcising the past, imperiling the future. Author: Crossette B Source: Conscience. 2007;27(4):[13] p. Abstract: In the Autumn of 2005, not long after one of the most conservative parties in Poland unexpectedly emerged from an election with enough legislative seats to form a right-wing coalition government, some like-minded Polish members of the European Parliament mounted an exhibition at a parliamentary building in Strasbourg. The show was called, innocently, "Life and Children in Europe," but it was shocking. Most distressing to some who saw it were photographs of children in Nazi concentration camps juxtaposed with images of fetuses and a damning quote from Mother Teresa, an implacable foe of abortion until her death. The link between abortion and the crimes of Hitler was obvious. Ana Gomes, an outspoken Portuguese Socialist member of the European Parliament (MEP), went with two Belgian colleagues to the exhibition, determined to remove several particularly offending panels. In an e-mail exchange in August 2006, Gomes said, "They tried to equate women who abort with Nazi crimes. Two colleagues and I decided to go into action." A scuffle ensued, and the relevant parliamentary committee was called in to settle it. The peacemaker, a Socialist MEP from Poland, ordered the controversial panels removed. "She was savaged in the Polish media," Gomes recalled. "We had to give interviews all over to support her." Months of campaigning followed by Poland's new government, which engaged battles that Western Europe thought had long ago been won by voices of moderation. Poles would call for, among other things, the restoration of the death penalty, an end to support for stem cell research and no movement on strengthening gay rights at a European level. To Krzysztof Bobinski, director of the Warsaw-based pro-European Union foundation Unia i Polska (the Union and Poland), it seemed the European Union's largest new member was choosing to move in an opposite direction on social issues from the "old" E.U. "I think we went into the period of freedom after 1989 with a kind of liberal consensus -- liberal in terms of free-market economics and also liberal in terms of morals and manners," Bobinski said during an interview in Warsaw during September 2006. In 1989, a relatively open election in Poland led the way to the collapse of single-party communist rule across Central and Eastern Europe. Nearly two decades later, Bobinski said, the current government and Poland's powerful Roman Catholic church may not be signaling the early death of liberal Poland, "but there hasn't been an attempt made like this since 1989." (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: POLAND | EUROPEAN UNION | CRITIQUE | PRO-CHOICE GROUPS | YOUTH | CONSERVATISM | CATHOLICISM | ABORTION LAW | COMMUNISM | HUMAN RIGHTS | CONTRACEPTION | Europe, Central | Europe | Developing Countries | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Christianity | Religion | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Socialism | Political Systems Document Number: 310153 Notification |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Emergency contraception under attack in Latin America: Response of the medical establishment and civil society. Author: Faundes A; Tavara L; Brache V; Alvarez F Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2007 May;15(29):130-138. Abstract: The concept that it is possible to prevent a pregnancy after coitus is not new, but has gained prominence over the last 10-15 years. It provides a second chance to women who do not want to get pregnant and who, voluntarily or not, have had unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception has been under strong attack by the Catholic church and anti-choice organisations in Latin America, who claim that the interference with implantation of the fertilised ovum is equivalent to an early abortion. The accumulation of evidence, however, is that the mechanism of action of emergency contraception is to prevent ovulation and that it does not interfere with implantation. This has been ignored by the anti-choice movement. The pattern of opposition to emergency contraception has been the same all over the Latin America region. The medical establishment and civil society, including the International Consortium for Emergency Contraception, have played a key role in defending access to emergency contraception throughout the region. A positive consequence of the public opposition of the Catholic church is that the concept and the method have become better known, and emergency contraception has become widely used. The cases of Peru, Brazil and Chile are described as examples. (author's) Language: English Keywords: LATIN AMERICA | CRITIQUE | CASE STUDIES | ABORTION | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE MODE OF ACTION | CONTRACEPTIVE AVAILABILITY | POLITICAL FACTORS | CATHOLICISM | ADVOCACY | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | Developing Countries | Americas | Studies | Research Methodology | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Contraception | Family Planning | Christianity | Religion | Communication | Human Rights Document Number: 313519 Notification |
| 19. Title: Opinion: some messages can't be massaged. Author: Furedi A Source: Conscience. 2007;27(4):[3] p. Abstract: Communications and "messaging" play a larger part in politics and social policy than at any time in history. In the U.K., as in the U.S., it seems that policymakers spend more time trying to work out how to "sell" initiatives to the public than assessing how effective they would be if they were adopted. "Will it win support?" seems more important than "Is it true?" or "Will it work?" Naturally, this affects and frames the abortion discourse on both sides of the pond. Prochoice advocates know we must move on from the slogans of the past, because today's social concerns are different. The advance of reproductive technologies and fetal medicine has stimulated an interest in the development of life before birth that did not exist 30 years ago. In the 1970s, abortion was seen as an issue affecting a woman ("our bodies, our lives, our right to decide"); now public opinion is increasing concerned with the fetus (does it feel pain? have rights?). In the 1970s, women's equality was an ambition to be fought for; now many believe it has been achieved. The language of the "right to choose," which once seemed central to women's freedom, now makes many people uncomfortable. We must address this discomfort. To do this, we have to engage with contemporary concerns, and we can all agree that research that examines what alienates people from prochoice perspectives is vital to such engagement. However, there is a danger that we may become so concerned with "branding" that we lose sight of what we stand for. We do ourselves no favors -- and much fault -- when, in the hope of framing abortion to make it acceptable to the widest constituency, we forget essential truths. One of these truths is that access to abortion underpins, and is essential to, women's equality. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | PHILOSOPHICAL OVERVIEW | PRO-CHOICE GROUPS | ABORTION | PREGNANCY, UNPLANNED | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | DECISION MAKING | ABORTION LAW | ADVOCACY | MESSAGE DEVELOPMENT | PUBLIC HEALTH | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Human Rights | Behavior | Communication | Health Document Number: 310152 Notification |
| 20. Title: World YWCA leaders and the UN decade for women. Author: Garner K Source: Journal of International Women's Studies. 2007 Nov;9(1):212-233. Abstract: This essay analyzes the contributions of three Young Women's Christian Association leaders who chaired the nongovernmental organization forum planning committees during the UN Decade for Women (1975-1985). It assesses the effectiveness of their leadership and addresses questions of distribution and uses of power within women's international NGOs and in relationship to the global feminist community. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | UN | ORGANIZATIONS | WOMEN | WOMEN'S GROUPS | LEADERSHIP | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | FEMINISM | CHRISTIANITY | International Agencies | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Demographic Factors | Population | Interest Groups | Organization and Administration | Religion Document Number: 323855 |
| 21. Title: "Rights to stop the wrong": Cultural change and collective mobilization -- the case of Kolkata sex workers. Author: Gooptu N; Bandyopadhyay N Source: Oxford Development Studies. 2007 Sep;35(3):251-272. Abstract: In the past decade-and-a-half, sex workers in Kolkata (India) red-light districts have involved themselves in a STD-HIV health project and, at the same time, formed an autonomous organization to protest against exploitation and to challenge social norms that ostracize them. This paper examines how this marginalized group, who previously saw themselves as socially alienated victims, came to reinvent themselves as social actors, endowed with a sense of collective rights and capacity. The analytical focus is on the transformation of the worldview and self-perception of sex workers, and on the specific aspects of the development intervention that facilitated this transition. The following elements were found to be most significant: (a) the establishment of an egalitarian organizational culture in the health project; (b) the introduction of a dialogic educational programme; and (c) the development of a culture of political activism among sex workers, animated by a notion of their right to protest against injustice and inequality. The study draws attention to the change of attitudes and identity as the key factor propelling the engagement of the socially excluded and the poor in development processes and public action. By analysing this largely neglected theme in development literature, this paper contributes to debates on the question of participation from a hitherto under-explored perspective. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | SEX WORKERS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | CULTURE | SOCIAL CHANGE | ADVOCACY | INEQUALITIES | SELF-PERCEPTION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Communication | Socioeconomic Factors | Perception | Psychological Factors Document Number: 321429 |
| 22. Title: Violence against women and children [letter] Author: Gupta V; Goel A; Bhoi S Source: Lancet. 2007 Jan 6;369(9555):24. Abstract: Your Editorial on violence against women and children is timely and thought-provoking. It is pleasing that the UN report you discuss coincides with implementation of a new law against domestic violence in India. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 20053 came into force on Oct 26, 2006. The array of cases reported nationwide within a week of its implementation underscores the long-felt need for such legislation. This stringent act clearly defines and recognises domestic violence for the first time and promises to provide comprehensive attention to actual abuse or the threat of abuse whether physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, or economical. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LEGISLATION | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | TREATIES | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Interest Groups | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 310745 |
| 23. Title: Sudanese women acting to end sexual violence. Author: Hashim FA Source: Forced Migration Review. 2007 Jan;(27):44. Abstract: The UN and the African Union must do more to insist that the Government of Sudan create an enabling environment to report, investigate and prosecute cases of violence against women. Militarisation and long-standing armed conflicts in many regions have deeply affected the daily lives of Sudanese women, most recently and tragically in Darfur. Fundamentalist interpretations of sharia law are used to control women and are given as reason for not ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). When it was established in May 2004 the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) - the only external military force in Darfur - was charged with monitoring the cease-fire agreement signed between parties at conflict to deter uncontrolled armed groups from committing hostile acts against civilians. AMIS public reporting has focused on breaches of the cease-fire, including attacks on civilians, but has failed to integrate gender issues. AMIS has conspicuously failed toprevent widespread rape and sexual violence. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | WAR | RAPE | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | WOMEN'S GROUPS | LEGISLATION | REFUGEE CAMPS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Africa, Northern | Africa | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Interest Groups | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Diseases Document Number: 313189 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Abortion and politics in Nicaragua: The women’s movement in the debate on the Abortion Law Reform 1999 -- 2002. Author: Heumann SG Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2007 May-Jun;9(3):217-231. Abstract: This paper analyses discussion on a proposed reform to the abortion law in Nicaragua between 1999 and 2002, as a struggle between different actors-politicians, religious leaders, doctors and feminists-over the meaning of abortion, motherhood and sexuality, and ultimately the value of women's lives. It shows how the interplay of gender discourses and political practices shaped the process of discussion: on one hand by making a broad alliance against abortion possible, on the other by highlighting the contradictory role of the women's movement in this discussion, between a dominant leadership and a low mobilizing capacity. The paper argues for the need of an inwards oriented process within the women's movement, that departs from the recognition of the personal issues at stake for women in order to break the silence surrounding abortion, such as prevailing feelings of fear and guilt. This entails recognition of the limits of the liberal feminist claim to 'abortion as a free choice', as a discourse of rights that is disconnected from the everyday life conditions and constraints under which women make choices and develop their notions of rights. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NICARAGUA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | POLICYMAKERS | PRO-CHOICE GROUPS | ABORTION LAW | POLITICAL FACTORS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | CATHOLICISM | FEMINISM | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Social Change | Christianity | Religion Document Number: 317697 Notification |
| 25. Title: From mother to mother: A peer mentor program to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV in South Africa offers much needed support. Author: Khan H; Baek C; Mathambo V; Mkhize S; Friedman I Source: Horizons Report. 2007 Jun;:2-5. Abstract: In South Africa most PMTCT services are offered through government-supported health facilities that provide rapid HIV testing at the first prenatal care visit and Nevirapine for women in labor and for infants after delivery. The facilities are now scaling up to provide dual treatment with AZT and Nevirapine for pregnant women and infant testing for HIV at six weeks of age using HIV DNA PCR tests. However, despite the availability of services, the reality is that for many women, adhering to the recommendations is hindered by fear of stigma, lack of information, and little time for overworked health providers to offer counselling and support services. In addition, there is weak follow-up in the postpartum period, which means many women and children do not get all the services they need. While anecdotal information suggested that mothers2mothers (m2m) fills an important gap in service provision, the program had not been formally evaluated until now. To determine whether it improved the psychosocial well-being and behaviors of women living with HIV, and increased the uptake of PMTCT services, the Horizons Program, in collaboration with Health Systems Trust, conducted an evaluation of the program in 2006. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | CRITIQUE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | MOTHERS | PREGNANCY | HIV | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | HIV TESTING | WOMEN'S GROUPS | HEALTH EDUCATION | MATERNAL HEALTH | EVALUATION | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Reproduction | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Education | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 320165 |
| 26. Title: Neo-liberal globalization in the Philippines: Its impact on Filipino women and their forms of resistance. Author: Lindio-McGovern L Source: Journal of Developing Societies. 2007;23(1-2):15-35. Abstract: This article argues that neo-liberal globalization is not a neutral process. Using the Philippines as a case in point, it shows that neo-liberal policies have exacerbated poverty especially within already marginalized communities, and especially among women, while benefiting transnational capital and wealthier nations. Consequently, neo-liberal globalization has engendered conflict and resistance both on the home front and across national borders. The politics of GABRIELA, the militant women's movement organization in the Philippines, and Migrante International, a coalition of Filipino migrant organizations overseas, are examined. Both organizations challenge neo-liberal globalization in the Philippines. The nation-state is implicated in the implementation of neo-liberal policies and in the politics of resistance. In the former, the state plays an instrumentalist role; in the latter, the state is a target for transformation and is called upon to take the side of those who are harmed by globalization. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PHILIPPINES | CRITIQUE | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | GOVERNMENT | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | WOMEN'S STATUS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | POVERTY | ECONOMIC POLICY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Organizations | Socioeconomic Factors | Policy Document Number: 320680 |
| 27. Title: Women's centres: spaces of empowerment in Darfur. Author: Lowry C Source: Forced Migration Review. 2007 Jan;(27):[1] p. Abstract: Survivors of sexual assault need emotional support, safe and private spaces for healing and access to resources, information and networks. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) operates ten Women's Centres in Darfur to try to meet their needs. These Centres - in South, North and West Darfur - allow women to access the resources, support and referral processes vital for survivors of sexual violence. In situations where rape is used as a weapon of war, the actual experience of rape and other forms of sexual violence is one that is shared collectively. Women are often attacked in groups. Yet without recognised and accessible safe spaces - environments where disclosure and sharing are encouraged and facilitated - survivors will often not talk about their collective experience of violation. The Women's Centres try to create an environment where survivors feel welcome and safe. As women share their individual stories, the barriers to seeking assistance - shame, fear of being ostracised, fear of beingsingled out - break down as women realise that they are not alone in their experience. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WAR | RAPE | EMERGENCY SERVICES | CLINICS | TREATMENT | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Facilities | Medical Procedures | Medicine Document Number: 313188 |
| 28. Title: Women's rights in a global context. Author: McLaren MA Source: Journal of Developing Societies. 2007;23(1-2):159-173. Abstract: The classical liberal theories of rights overemphasize individual autonomy. Feminists from a variety of approaches criticize this individualistic model. Other feminists argue that rights discourse is essential to help end discrimination against women. However, these proponents of international women's rights too often focus on legal and political rights at the expense of economic rights. In a global context it is important to recognize the interconnections between different kinds of rights. A case study of the cooperative organization Marketplace/SHARE illustrates the importance of economic empowerment to the overall goal of advancing the cause of women's rights and equality. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | CASE STUDIES | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | ECONOMIC POLICY | WOMEN'S GROUPS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | FEMINISM | SEX DISCRIMINATION | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | COOPERATIVES | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Human Rights | Organizations Document Number: 320685 |
| 29. Title: Gathering women in the postcolonial pacific region. Author: McPhillips K Source: Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion. 2007 Spring;23(1):117-120. Abstract: As I am writing this editorial in December 2006, thinking about how best to describe recent scholarship and local activism in the field of feminist studies in religion in the Pacific region, there has just been another military coup in Fiji, and island residents are preparing themselves for further violence and social chaos. The prime minister, installed six years ago by the Fijian military, has been forced to step down. While the situation surrounding this coup is historically, socially, and economically specific to Fiji, decolonization struggles have characterized the current political situation across the Pacific Ocean. The Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga have all been engaged in-often deadly and violent-economic and political power struggles, most intensely in the past six years. These four countries account for 92 percent of the region's population and almost 99 percent of its land mass. Such struggles take place against growing global economic agendas and in the shadow of Australia's enormous power in the Pacific region. The situation is tricky. Australia provides economic aid to these small nations and commands a good deal of political and economic clout. In Fiji, the police commissioner is Australian. And Australian military forces have been sent to a number of Pacific nations, including the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, to assist in dealing with the social chaos and violence that political instability fosters. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: OCEANIA | CRITIQUE | WOMEN'S GROUPS | FEMINISM | COLONIALISM | POLITICAL FACTORS | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | CULTURE | ECONOMIC CONDITIONS | GENDER ISSUES | Developing Countries | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Political Systems | Religion | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 317157 |
| 30. Title: Economic empowerment of women through information technology: A case study from an Indian state. Author: Prasad PN; Sreedevi V Source: Journal of International Women's Studies. 2007 May;8(4):107-120. Abstract: It is universally accepted that Information Communication Technologies (ICT) offer immense opportunities for the comprehensive social and economic development of the people all over the world. Without its adoption, there is little chance for countries or regions to develop. However, the potential of ICT as a technology for promoting micro-enterprises by poor women is still unused in many countries. This article discusses the success story of a government project for poverty eradication using ICT. The case study on 'ICT micro-enterprises by self-help group of poor women' describes the story of a self-help group, which uses potential of ICT for poverty eradication through economic empowerment of poor women. It illustrates how ICT can effectively be used as a technology for micro-enterprises, which are promoted by poor women under self-employment scheme. The article also deals with SWOT analysis that identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for ICT based microenterprises. The article proves that if a country has the necessary enabling environment permitting the establishment of ICT micro-enterprises, poor women can promote such business for their economic empowerment. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | LOW INCOME POPULATION | INFORMATION PROCESSING | TECHNOLOGY | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Information | Women's Status | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 319966 |
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