This book examines the framework of traditional social values, cultural patterns, customary practices, and the political and economic forces that influence the way of life and the development of women. Although the focus is on women in Eritrea, the implications in this book extend to women in other countries of the developing world. Analyzing the institutional barriers to gender equality, Gebremedhin also describes how to uncover hidden values and cultures in order to stimulate new, gender-equitable ways of thinking. He also provides technical information on gender issues, which can form the basis for policy actions and development programs, and includes hypotheses for more in-depth research concerning gender issues. It is evident that there is very little information available on the lives and work of Eritrean women. The reasons for this dearth of information are no doubt complex, but they involve a general reticence and reservation—based on history and culture—to ask for and give information about women. A lack of motivation or research for learning about women and the lack of a conceptual framework for studying women as separate entities also contribute to this dearth. This book is a useful source of information and reference for policymakers, professionals, researchers, and consultants who are interested in issues related to social transformation and development. It can also serve as an educational resource for schools and libraries and will be of strong interest to those concerned with issues of traditional gender roles and their impact on political affairs, social progress, and economic development.

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