This collection of articles critically assesses the degree to which gender inequality has been addressed in the work of development organizations. Contributors scrutinize the efforts of governments and NGOs, at the national and international levels, in order to assess the difference that gender mainstreaming has made to advancing women's interests in development. In addition, they consider the progress that development organizations have made in ensuring women's fullest participation at all levels of their own organizations.

Contributions to this volume include case studies from...

Aid, NGOs and the Realities of Women's Lives explores how international NGOs are navigating changes that challenge their role and legitimacy, their values and their overall purpose. The writers explore alternative ways of conceptualizing development, and of bringing about improvements for the most marginalized and increasingly -unheard- women. The book calls for a re-examination of theories about change and a refocus on ideas of complexity and feminism and on learning from past NGO experience.

Aid organizations have their origins in a desire to help the world's poorest and...