This issue is devoted to areas of concern articulated in the Beijing Platform for Action. The report 'Gender Equality: Striving for Justice in an Unequal World' presents the results of research and analysis concerning macroeconomics, well-being and gender equality: women, work and social policy: women in politics and public life: and gender, armed conflict and the search for peace. The transition of women in politics to advance for gender equality issues and women-friendly policies depends on the effectiveness of women's movements in holding governments accountable, and gender-sensitive good governance. Women's economic activity rates have been rising in most part of the world, yet labour market continue to be segmented by gender. The intensification of women's paid work has been paralleled by a deterioration in the terms and conditions of work. Attention is being paid to civic and political participation of women in Central and Eastern Europe and the challenges of equality and difference.