UN WomenWatch

Thanks to Jeff, a SOM library student worker, for reminding me about the United Nations’ great website, WomenWatch.  The site acts as a clearinghouse for all subjects related to women in the world, from news to research to events.  You could spend the day looking at all of information they have, there’s just so much of it.  Examples are the Women2000 and Beyond report, a series publication that addresses world gender issues that aren’t at the forefront.  Their most recent report, in honor of International Day of Rural Women (October 15th) focused on:

the situation of rural women and the full diversity of their experiences in the context of the changing rural economy, including their position within households, community and economic structures; the gender division of labour; their access to and control over resources; and their participation in decision-making. It focuses specifically on the situation of rural women in developing countries. This publication aims to highlight women’s contributions to the social, economic and political aspects of rural development and raise critical issues for improving the situation of rural women.

These publications are fascinating and freely available online.  Other examples of the breadth of WomenWatch are the topics they cover:  Women and the Economy; Women in Power and Decision Making; Women and Armed Conflict; Women and the Media; and many others.